Topic: Anger Management Treatment (Adult)
Scientific Ratings in this topic:
1 - Well-Supported by Research Evidence
2 - Supported by Research Evidence
3 - Promising Research Evidence
4 - Evidence Fails to Demonstrate Effect
5 - Concerning Practice
NR - Not able to be Rated
Learn more about the scale
Definition for Anger Management Treatment (Adult):
Anger Management Treatment (Adult) is defined by the CEBC as the treatment of adults with anger control problems or anger-related difficulties. Anger has been associated with many negative consequences, including aggressive behavior, family violence, substance abuse, and physical health problems. In addition, anger problems are common in populations diagnosed with a mental disorder or illness. Parents involved in the child welfare system are often required to attend anger management classes as a part of their case plan.
- Target population: Adults with anger control problems or anger-related difficulties
- Services/types that fit: Typically outpatient services, either individual or group
- Delivered by: Mental health professionals or trained paraprofessionals
- In order to be included: Program must specifically target anger management as a goal
- In order to be rated: There must be research evidence (as specified by the Scientific Rating Scale) that examines anger management outcomes, such as changes in behavior
Programs in this Topic Area
The programs listed below have been reviewed by the CEBC and, if appropriate, been rated using the Scientific Rating Scale.
Eight Programs with a Scientific Rating of NR - Not able to be Rated:
Why was this topic chosen by the Advisory Committee?
The Anger Management Treatment (Adult) topic area is relevant to child welfare because anger management, along with parenting, substance abuse treatment, and mental health treatment, is among the four most commonly found service areas identified in child welfare case plans and court orders. In Fresno County [where Mr. Himes worked in 2010], anger management is found in approximately 60% of the case plans. In addition, anger management programs often do not have consistent standards and program outcomes and are not research-based. Frequently, anger management programs are derived from certified batterer treatment programs which are mandated through the criminal justice system and can last up to 52 weeks. Rarely is a program specifically designed for child welfare clients. There is no consistent specific screening criteria used to determine the need for anger management services. With the high level of service utilization and the lack of standardized and outcome-based program options, the concern for ultimately insuring the safety of children in the child welfare system is a strong driving force behind highlighting anger management (adult) on the CEBC.
Howard Himes, Director
Napa County Health and Human Services
Napa, CA
Topic Expert
Raymond Chip Tafrate, PhD, Department Chair and Professor
Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CT
