Anger response style as it relates to gaining and retaining employment in a chronically poor population

Abstract

This study examined anger response style in a chronically poor, unemployed population, and its effects on job employment and six-month job retention. Three hundred and forty-one clients from a comprehensive career development programme for low-income adults in Brooklyn, New York, participated in the study. Participants completed structured clinical interviews and assessments on emotional and occupational functioning. Results suggested that the way in which individuals respond to feelings of anger did not significantly affect the acquisition of jobs. However, the results indicated that those who utilise suppressive (passive) anger response strategies were much more likely to retain jobs for six-months. Additionally, there was no difference in job retention at the six-month period for those who expressed anger assertively and respectfully compared to those who expressed anger in an aggressive verbal or physical manner, suggesting that for this population, it is more beneficial to suppress one's anger than to respectfully express one's anger, in order to retain employment. © Policy Press 2013.