What is to be short tempered?

As a behavioral psychologist with a focus on emotional intelligence and interpersonal communication, I've had the opportunity to study and understand the nuances of various emotional responses, including the concept of being "short-tempered." This term is deeply rooted in the way individuals manage their emotions and express their frustrations or anger.

Short-tempered is an adjective used to describe a person who is easily angered and tends to lose their temper frequently. It's a characteristic that can significantly impact one's personal and professional relationships, as well as their overall mental and emotional well-being.

### Understanding Short-Temperedness


1. Emotional Regulation: Being short-tempered often indicates a challenge with emotional regulation. Individuals who are quick to anger may struggle with managing their emotional responses effectively.


2. Stress and Triggers: High levels of stress can exacerbate short-temperedness. Certain triggers, such as specific situations or interactions, can provoke an immediate and intense emotional reaction.


3. Communication Skills: Those who are short-tempered may lack effective communication skills, particularly when it comes to expressing their needs or frustrations in a calm and constructive manner.


4. Impulsivity: There's often an impulsive component to short-temperedness. People who are quick to anger may act without fully considering the consequences of their actions.


5. Cultural Factors: Cultural norms and expectations can influence how anger is expressed and perceived. What is considered short-tempered in one culture may be seen as assertive or normal in another.


6. Psychological Underpinnings: There can be various psychological reasons for short-temperedness, including past traumas, mental health conditions, or personality disorders.

### Impact on Relationships


1. Avoidance: People who are known to be short-tempered may find that others avoid their company, leading to isolation and difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships.


2. Conflict: Short-tempered individuals are more prone to conflicts, which can strain relationships and create a hostile environment.


3. Trust Issues: Frequent outbursts of anger can erode trust, as others may feel uncertain about when the next outburst will occur.


4. Workplace Dynamics: In professional settings, short-temperedness can hinder collaboration, lead to a negative work culture, and affect career advancement.

### Coping Strategies


1. Self-Awareness: Recognizing one's propensity to be short-tempered is the first step toward change. Self-awareness can help in identifying patterns and triggers.


2. Therapy and Counseling: Professional help can provide strategies for managing anger and improving emotional intelligence.


3. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices that promote relaxation and self-control can help in managing impulsive reactions.


4. Exercise: Physical activity can serve as an outlet for stress and frustration, reducing the likelihood of short-tempered outbursts.


5. Communication Techniques: Learning to express oneself assertively but calmly can help in resolving conflicts without resorting to anger.


6. Support Networks: Having a strong support system can provide emotional stability and help in managing short-tempered tendencies.

### Conclusion

Short-temperedness is a complex trait that can stem from various factors and can have profound effects on an individual's life. By understanding the underlying causes and employing appropriate coping mechanisms, individuals can work towards improving their emotional regulation and fostering healthier relationships.

short-tempered. Adjective. (comparative more short-tempered, superlative most short-tempered) Of or pertaining to a person who is easily angered, who is known to frequently lose his or her temper. She is so short-tempered that people avoid her company.