The angry physician-Part 1. The temper-tantruming physician

Angry physicians create problems--for the people they treat and work with, for their administrators, and for their loved ones. Addressing negative emotions is one of the most prevalent organizational and personal challenges facing physician leaders. Solving this problem starts with taking an honest look at the factors and processes that shape physicians' coping patterns. Learning effective emotional management skills is underscored by a simple fact: Emotions are contagious. The Type A behavior pattern (TYABP) refers to an aggressive coping mode. Cross-cultural research suggests that, compared to the general population, physicians show elevated scores on TYABP measures, and that women physicians are at particular risk of developing TYABP. In Part 2 of this series, interpersonal anger management strategies will be presented.