Original Research Article
Lee Shu Chin and Nor Shafrin b
Abstract
This research was intended to examine the effect of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) anger management module on anger expressions among adolescents. The respondents for this study involved 43 adolescents aged 15 to 16 years old from four secondary schools in Penang Island. They were among the 318 participants from four schools who identified with high T-scores value of 60 and above in their Reactive Anger (RA), Instrumental Anger (IA) and/or Total Anger (TA) from Adolescent Anger Rating Scale (AARS) instrument. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to gather data. Data were analysed using paired-samples t-test and independent-samples t-test with SPSS 22.0. Meanwhile, the feedback interview transcripts obtained from interviews with respondents; participated school counsellors and school discipline teachers were analysed using content analysis. The qualitative results served to cross-check the credibility of the quantitative results. Four interventions such as the cognitive restructuring, relaxation through slow deep breathing, communication skills, and problem-solving routine were taught through the eight weekly group counselling intervention sessions. Results from both the quantitative and qualitative data had shown a positive effect of CBT anger management module on anger expressions among adolescents. Reduction in respondents’ T-scores value of TA from pre-test to post-test and follow-up test had shown that the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) module is effective in helping respondents to manage their anger. Therefore, this CBT anger management module can be proposed to be used as a guideline in guidance and counselling sessions for anger problem. The practical implications and research limitations are discussed.