This seems like a great case of a bad headline derailing discussion. The first study quoted uses hitting a punching bag as an example of venting. I’d contrast that against what I think of as venting: talking about what’s bothering you without looking for the discussion to solve anything other than providing space to say what you’re feeling. When they say venting doesn’t work, they’re referring to a specific kind of venting.
> In more general terms, embracing our feelings isn’t the same as expressing them, and not all forms of expression are created equal. Realizing “I’m angry” (always OK) is a different beast from telling someone “I’m angry” (sometimes OK), and it’s even further from berating a loved one for causing your anger (not OK).
It’s a good article with a nuanced point, and all the discussion reacting to the shitty headline is a shame.
> In more general terms, embracing our feelings isn’t the same as expressing them, and not all forms of expression are created equal. Realizing “I’m angry” (always OK) is a different beast from telling someone “I’m angry” (sometimes OK), and it’s even further from berating a loved one for causing your anger (not OK).
It’s a good article with a nuanced point, and all the discussion reacting to the shitty headline is a shame.