7.6 How Each Colour Manages Anger

Thomas Erikson likens each DISC colour’s anger response to a different drinking container, illustrating how quickly frustration builds up and how messy the aftermath can become once anger spills over (Erikson, 1950).

Red

A shot glass fills up fast, leading to a small but sudden spill. Quick to make a mess, yet fairly quick to “clean up.”

Short fuse: It doesn’t take much to make a Red angry.

Anger expression: When triggered, they are often direct, forceful, and confrontational, often raising their voice or using a harsh tone and language.

Aftermath: Outbursts are typically short-lived. Reds usually cool down quickly, returning to normal as if nothing happened.

Yellow

A pint glass holds more than a shot glass, so it takes a bit more time to fill. Once it overflows, you will notice the spill more, and it will take more time and effort to clean up than a shot glass.

Moderate fuse: Yellows take slightly longer to reach a boiling point compared to Reds.

Anger expression: They may become emotional or dramatic, venting frustration through words or exaggerated gestures.

Aftermath: While they can let off steam loudly and for longer than a red, they generally move on once they have aired their feelings and feel like they have been adequately acknowledged.

Green

A barrel holds considerably more than a pint glass. However, a closed barrel keeps everything sealed inside. When it finally bursts, the mess can be substantial.

Long fuse: Greens tend to bottle up anger in an effort to maintain harmony. It takes a lot for them to reach a breaking point.

Anger expression: They often stew quietly, revealing their displeasure through subtle, passive-aggressive, non-verbal hints rather than open conflict.

Aftermath: Because they rarely vent directly, tension can linger and grow over time. When the barrel bursts, the damage is great and takes a long time to “clean up.”

Blue

A barrel with a tap allows for measured release; it does not blow up all at once, but the pressure can still be intense if not relieved properly.

Controlled fuse: Blues can hold a considerable amount of anger before showing it.

Anger expression: Instead of yelling, they often use sarcasm, sharp criticism, or cutting remarks when they feel cornered.

Aftermath: Their anger tends to be more intellectualized than emotional, but it can be just as impactful.