Transferred aggression, also called displaced or redirected aggression, is aggressive behaviour directed at someone or in some cases, something that is not the source of provocation.

 

This is usually because the pent-up aggression did not have a means to escape peacefully and especially when they cannot be released on the source. 

For example, a parent’s scolding that a child vents on his/her siblings, a superior’s criticism that a worker ‘eases’ on their colleagues et cetera.

 

It is important to note the aftereffects of the initial provocation can linger well after the incident. Simply meaning that an act of transfer of aggression may stem from rumination on a provocation that took place hours to days before. Especially in cases that are perceived to be humiliating.

 

It might not always come out of the blue, it can be triggered by an act on the victim’s part that provides a means for the aggressor to release his/her tensions self-justified-ly.

This situation is called TRIGGERED DISPLACED AGGRESSION.

 

 

Transferred aggression is very unhealthy and very difficult to check as well because it can happen unknowingly. Your state of mind could spill over to people without you being aware of it. Apart from immediate repercussions, it can cause prolonged strain on relationships.

Nothing positive can come out of something negative unless it is with someone who is tolerant and patient enough to try to understand and not hold it against you or atleast point it out to you in a tactful way. 

Otherwise, quarrels, fights and others in the same direction are bound to result.

 

What can help prevent Displaced aggression

 

Understand your emotions

 

The prompting emotion for redirected aggression is usually anger. It helps to understand oneself and what one feels. And to know if how one is feeling towards the provocation is actually right. 

The reason behind whatever is making you angry could be well-founded and you could well be reacting without cause.

 

 

Explain your mood before acting in your mood

 

Before you go ‘how am I supposed to start explaining myself when I’m angry?’, know that a fair warning can be enough.

A ‘not now please, I’m not in a good mood’ is a very polite heads up and can go a long way in keeping you from an outburst.

 

 

Understand that nobody is your scapegoat

 

People go through a lot too and try to keep it from affecting their relationships with you so it would mean a lot to them if you got a trash can and transferred your goodies into it instead. Or better yet, tell them about it instead of pouring it on them.

 

 

"You won't believe daddy scolded me today"

 

Have you had cases of a transfer of aggression? Do you also transfer stuff apart from money?(smiles in mischief) Do you think these suggestions will help? What are yours?

 

Let’s have fun in the comments.