A simple laboratory method for inducing anger: A preliminary investigation

To facilitate the experimental study of anger, we developed a simple labora tory method to induce anger. This anger induction (AI) is similar in format to the Velten Mood Induction Procedure for depression (VMIP-D), and involv es reading descriptors of anger experience. recalling relevant personal mem ories, and evoking the mood suggested by the sentence/memory. We administer ed the AI and VMIP-D to 81 undergraduate men and women and collected mood r atings before, during, and after each mood induction. The Al exhibited good sensitivity and specificity in that it induced moderate to greater increas es in anger (>1 SD change) in 68% of the sample. significant decreases in h appiness, and minimal changes in other emotions. Mood responses to the AI a nd VMIP-D were influenced by gender and order of presentation. Uses and lim itations of this method are discussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc.