Sometimes the simplest words have the most complicated meanings. The word “anger” is certainly a member of this linguistic club. Here are three very different presentations of the not-so-simple emotion we call “anger.”

In the heat of an argument, overwhelming emotions can rob us of our common sense. The fallout from these momentary explosions can last for years. Learning how to handle emotional storms can keep a bad moment from doing long-term damage to a relationship.

Is anger a finite substance that can be let out or kept in, which “goes off” if it is kept in, and feels good and constructive to let out? Is any kind of emotional energy like that?

Research on the effects of anger expression on speed of wound healing shows that bottling it up and expressing anger in a controlled way do not affect the healing process adversely, but losing your temper sure does.