Understanding Anger Without Visual Cues
Episode Overview
Anger is a common emotion but doesn't have to lead to aggression. Using an 'emotion wheel' can help identify specific feelings. Communication is key for those with low vision to understand others' reactions. Bias exists in therapy regarding sighted vs. blind therapists. Grief is a frequent theme among individuals with vision loss.
"Anger doesn't have to equal aggression. It's how we handle it that counts."
Imagine navigating the complexities of anger without the visual cues most of us rely on. In this episode of 'Blindsight', host Bill Lundgrin and guest Samantha King dive into the emotional experiences of those with low vision or blindness. Samantha, who stumbled into her role as a vision-loss counsellor at the Tampa Lighthouse for the Blind, shares her journey and challenges the stigma surrounding anger in this community.
She highlights that individuals with low vision are simply people with unique life experiences, and grief is often part of their emotional landscape. Bill and Samantha explore the 'anger umbrella', a term that encompasses a range of emotions often mistaken for anger. They discuss practical techniques for expressing and managing these feelings, especially when visual feedback is absent. Samantha's approach includes using an 'emotion wheel' to pinpoint specific emotions, encouraging clients to verbalise their feelings clearly.
The conversation also touches on the biases within therapy—whether a blind therapist can be as effective as a sighted one—and how these prejudices can be overcome. Samantha emphasises the importance of communication, urging those with low vision to ask for verbal feedback to understand the emotional atmosphere around them. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on anger, reminding us that it's not about avoiding the emotion but learning to express it constructively.
Whether you're dealing with anger or supporting someone who is, you'll find valuable insights and strategies here. Ready to rethink your approach to anger?