The key to preventing workplace violence is to recognize and handle suspicious behavior before it becomes violent. You have most likely heard of road rage. In business we have desk rage and customer rage, which can take the form of yelling, verbal abuse, and physical violence. People who are angry, or who have been hurt in some way, may become aggressive and seek revenge, sometimes through violence.

It is natural to get angry sometimes. Although we cannot control the feeling of anger, we can control our behavior. Letting anger build up often leads to passive–aggressive behavior. Anger can be tough to deal with, so here are some ideas to help.

Remember that what you think about affects how you feel, and how you feel affects your behavior, human relations, happiness, and performance. So don’t think about and dwell on your angry feelings. Be assertive, not passive, to help keep from using passive-aggressive behavior.

Develop a positive attitude about how you deal with anger. Use the techniques for changing your attitudes and building a positive self-concept. Develop positive affirmations. Try to understand why you get angry and how to deal with it more productively, then write it down and continuously improve. This method is an effective way to let out the anger and change your angry behavior.