Buddhism taught that anger is unwholesome but in psychology point of view - anger is healthy. why the paradox?

Dear User, Thank you for your question regarding the paradox between Buddhism's teaching that anger is unwholesome and psychology's view that anger is healthy. It is understandable to feel confused or conflicted when two seemingly opposing perspectives collide. From a Buddhist perspective, anger is considered unwholesome because it is one of the three poisons that cause suffering, along with greed and ignorance. Anger arises from our attachment to our own desires, expectations, and opinions, and it clouds our judgment and ability to act skillfully. It also harms ourselves and others, leading to negative consequences and regrets. Therefore, Buddhism teaches us to cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom to overcome anger and transform it into positive energy that benefits ourselves and others. From a psychological perspective, anger is seen as a healthy emotion because it serves a protective function and helps us to express ourselves when we feel threatened, frustrated, or violated. Anger can motivate us to take action and set boundaries, and it can also signal that something is wrong and needs to be addressed. However, it is important to distinguish between healthy anger and destructive anger. Healthy anger is expressed assertively and respectfully, without resorting to aggression, violence, or passive-aggressive behavior. Destructive anger, on the other hand, causes harm to ourselves and others, and it can lead to a cycle of resentment, guilt, and shame. So, why the paradox? The paradox arises because Buddhism and psychology have different goals and methods of dealing with anger. Buddhism aims to liberate us from all forms of suffering, including anger, by cultivating mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom. Psychology aims to help us cope with the challenges of life, including anger, by developing emotional regulation, communication, and problem-solving skills. Both perspectives offer valuable insights and tools, but they operate at different levels of analysis and require different levels of practice. In terms of coaching advice, I would suggest that you explore both perspectives and find a balance that works for you. You can use mindfulness and compassion to observe your anger without judgment, and to understand its causes and effects. You can also use assertive communication and problem-solving skills to express your anger in a constructive way, and to find solutions that meet your needs and values. Remember that anger is a natural and normal part of being human, but it can also be transformed into a positive force for change. With practice and patience, you can learn to channel your anger in a skillful and beneficial way.