How do I deal with someone who uses anger to control me?
Anger & Emotional Regulation
Don't reward anger-based control by giving in; set clear boundaries, stay calm, and consider whether the relationship is safe.
When someone uses anger as a tool to control your behavior, they're essentially training you to comply through intimidation. This is a form of emotional manipulation that can be subtle or overt. The person might explode when they don't get their way, give you the silent treatment, or use threats to make you back down from your position. The key to breaking this pattern is refusing to reward the behavior by giving in to their demands when they're being aggressive. This doesn't mean you should escalate or fight back, but rather maintain your Personal boundaries calmly and consistently. When someone is using anger issues to control you, stay as calm as possible and avoid getting drawn into their emotional intensity. You might say something like, 'I can see you're upset, but I'm not willing to discuss this while you're yelling. Let's talk when we can both be respectful.' Then follow through by leaving the conversation if necessary. Document patterns of controlling behavior, especially if it escalates or includes threats. Consider whether this relationship is safe for you - controlling anger issues can be a precursor to other forms of abuse. If you're in a romantic relationship with someone who uses anger to control you, couples counseling is generally not recommended because it can actually make the situation worse. Individual Psychotherapy can help you develop strategies for protecting yourself and deciding whether the relationship is worth preserving.