A brief guide to understanding RAGE: one of Motional's Social Defence Subdomains and one of the systems identified by Jaak Panksepp during his forty-plus years of research into emotions. What is RAGE and why is it important to understand it?
What is RAGE?
RAGE is one of the subdomains in Motional. It refers to the RAGE system, one of the systems identified by Jaak Panksepp during his forty-plus years of research into emotions and led to the development of what was later called "Affective Neuroscience".
RAGE refers to the neural circuits and associated brain regions that are associated with aggressive behaviour and produce feelings of anger and the tendency to act out aggressively in response to perceived threats or challenges. The RAGE system is located in the sub-cortical region of the brain.
Regarding neurobiology, the RAGE system is associated with the brain's response to stress and involves a complex interplay between chemicals and neurobiology.
When individuals experience stress, the amygdala, responsible for processing these emotions, sends a signal to the hypothalamus, activating the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland then releases hormones that stimulate the adrenal glands on top of the kidneys to release cortisol and adrenaline into the bloodstream.
These hormones prepare the body for a "fight or flight" response.
Why is RAGE important?
The implications of the RAGE system for developing children's emotional health are significant.
If a child experiences chronic stress or trauma, the RAGE system can become dysregulated, leading to negative impacts on emotional and physical health. Chronic stress can result in an overactive RAGE system, causing the body to release cortisol and adrenaline constantly. This can lead to symptoms later in life, such as anxiety, depression, and physical health problems like high blood pressure and weakened immune function.
Children who experience chronic stress may also struggle with emotional regulation and may be more likely to exhibit challenging behaviour, which can have a negative impact on their academic and social development.
It is essential for teachers, SENDCos, ALNCos and Senior Leads in school to be aware of the role of the RAGE system in emotional development so they can take steps to support children who may be experiencing chronic stress or trauma, such as providing a safe and nurturing environment, promoting healthy coping strategies, and offering access to mental health support.
Additionally, research suggests that specific interventions, such as mindfulness practices, may effectively regulate the RAGE system and reduce negative emotional states. Therefore, incorporating such practices into the curriculum and daily routines of schools may be beneficial for promoting children's emotional wellbeing and academic success.
Overall, the RAGE system is a complex and vital component of our emotional regulation, and understanding its role in children's emotional health can help educators better support the needs of their students.
Why is RAGE capitalised?
Jaak Panksepp established this convention. When RAGE is capitalised it specifically points to a unique emotional system within the brain, distinguishing it from the common usage of the word 'rage.'