Expression of direct anger and hostility predict depression symptoms in formerly depressed women.

Abstract

The focus of this two-part study was on distinguishing maladaptive expressions of anger (hostility) from adaptive forms (direct anger). Observational codes assessing the dimensions of hostility and direct anger were developed and applied to a videotaped task in which women discussed a conflictual topic with their romantic partners. Scales showed acceptable interrater reliability and convergent and discriminant validity. In a preliminary test of the predictive validity of these scales, their distinct roles in predicting psychological outcome were supported: Direct anger was negatively related and hostility was positively related to subsequent depressive symptoms in 23 formerly depressed women across a 6–18 month follow-up period. Results support the importance of further theoretical and empirical work to delineate adaptive and maladaptive expressions of anger.