Anger Incident Log (ABC)
A CBT anger log recording trigger, appraisals, intensity and body signs, behaviour and short- and long-term consequences, plus patterns and alternatives.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · CBT for anger
- Approach / concern
- Anger
- Technique
- CBT for anger
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Anger Incident Log (ABC)?
Anger logs are a core self-monitoring tool in CBT for anger. They break episodes into triggers, cognitive appraisals, emotional and physical arousal, behaviour and consequences, building awareness and identifying intervention points.
Why it works
A meta-analysis found CBT-based anger treatments produce moderate to large improvements for adults (DiGiuseppe & Tafrate, 2003). Self-monitoring of anger episodes is a foundational component of anger management programs (Kassinove & Tafrate, 2002).
When to use it
- Anger management programs
- Relationship and workplace conflict
- Irritability with depression or PTSD
- Court-mandated or self-referred clients
How to use it in session
- Log episodes soon after they happen.
- Identify appraisals such as ‘unfair’ or ‘disrespected’.
- Rate anger and note body signs.
- Compare short- and long-term consequences.
- Choose alternatives for next time.
Clinician tips
- Log mild episodes too, not just blow-ups.
- Highlight long-term costs non-judgementally.
- Screen for violence and safety concerns.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Is anger always bad?
No. Anger is a normal emotion; problems arise when it’s frequent, intense or expressed harmfully.
How many episodes should I log?
Logging several episodes over one to two weeks usually reveals patterns.
References
Kassinove, H., & Tafrate, R. C. (2002). Anger management: The complete treatment guidebook for practitioners. Impact Publishers.
DiGiuseppe, R., & Tafrate, R. C. (2003). Anger treatment for adults: A meta-analytic review. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 10(1), 70-84.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
