Anger Quote by Gabor Maté
““Reactions can be gratifyingly mature at one time but distressingly immature at another. If some deeply unconscious anxiety is triggered, a person may respond with the lack of emotional self-regulation characteristic of an infant. A fully grown adult exhibiting the rage of an infant is terrifying and potentially dangerous.””
About This Quote
Source Book: In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Gabor Maté, 2008
People can swing between mature and infantile emotional responses, especially when deep anxieties surface, leading to dangerous adult rage.
In simple terms: Adults may act like infants when triggered by hidden anxieties.
Recognize triggers and practice self‑regulation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- stressful meetings
- parenting
- conflict resolution
- personal therapy
- public speaking
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What hidden anxieties drive your reactions?
- How can you stay calm when triggered?
Even mature adults can lose control under stress, risking harm.