Date of Award

Summer 8-2016

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

Committee Chair

Eric R. Dahlen

Committee Chair Department

Psychology

Committee Member 2

Emily Bullock Yowell

Committee Member 2 Department

Psychology

Committee Member 3

Michael B. Madson

Committee Member 3 Department

Psychology

Committee Member 4

Richard S. Mohn

Committee Member 4 Department

Psychology

Abstract

Identifying and addressing potential problems with anger before they result in adverse consequences could be beneficial in improving quality of life and minimizing the disruptive effects of anger on one’s social environment. Excessive anger or anger which is expressed in maladaptive ways present particular challenges for college students due to their developmental stage, stressors, and environmental demands. Unfortunately, too few college students utilize available mental health resources. Individuals with problem anger are influenced by unique factors that affect help seeking decisions. A better understanding of these factors could facilitate outreach and improve service utilization. This study continued the development of the Attitudes Toward Anger Management Scale (ATAMS), a brief self-report measure designed to assess attitudes toward anger management services. Confirmatory factor analysis was utilized with a sample of undergraduate volunteers (N = 326) to validate the two-factor structure of the ATAMS. Convergent validity of the ATAMS was supported through finding bivariate correlations with measures of similar constructs. Evidence of 3-4 week test-retest reliability suggested adequate short-term stability of scores. Support for criterion validity was provided by demonstrating that the ATAMS predicts self-rated intentions to engage in anger management.

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