Evaluation of anger levels and anger expression styles in prisoners and convicts: The case of Bolu Type T Closed Prison

Introduction: Anger is an evolutionary emotion that enables individuals to produce rapid and effective responses to threatening stimuli. However, both the level and the expression of anger vary among individuals. The inability to express anger appropriately may negatively affect decision-making processes and lead to aggressive behaviors. Therefore, assessing the anger levels of inmates is important for both individual rehabilitation and institutional safety. Aim: This study aimed to identify the factors affecting anger levels and anger expression styles among prisoners and detainees in Bolu Type T Closed Penitentiary Institution. Methods: The study was designed as cross-sectional and descriptive. The sample consisted of 259 prisoners and detainees who voluntarily participated between February and May 2025. Data were collected using a sociodemographic form and the Trait Anger and Anger Expression Scale (Turkish adaptation of the original STAXI). Analyses were performed using t-test, one-way ANOVA, Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests, and Pearson correlation; the significance level was set at p<0.05. Results: Of the participants, 81.47% were male, and 38.61% were aged 26–35 years. The mean scores were as follows: trait anger 16.89, anger-in 15.29, anger-out 14.04, and anger control 22.64. Participants who had lost a parent before the age of 18 had lower anger control scores compared to those without such a loss (p=0.004). Participants who had experienced domestic violence had higher trait anger scores than those who had not (p=0.008). Participants with substance use prior to imprisonment had higher trait anger and anger-out scores compared to those without substance use (p=0.001 and p=0.004, respectively). Inmates who had received multiple disciplinary sanctions had higher anger-out scores than those with a single sanction or none (p=0.025). Conclusion: Certain groups differed in terms of anger levels and anger expression. Individuals convicted of multiple offenses expressed their anger outwardly more than detainees and those convicted of a single offense. Neither the remaining duration of the sentence nor the time spent in prison influenced anger levels or anger expression. Monitoring risk groups, planning more effective anger management training for all inmates, and revising training content may be beneficial for both individual rehabilitation and institutional safety. KEYWORDS: Anger, Anger Expression Style, Inmates, Prison