Tagged: “inherited trait”

My father has a temper and from all I can tell, he learned this from his father.  So, is anger an inherited trait?

By “inherited trait” I am guessing that you are not talking about a fixed biological characteristic, but instead are using that as a metaphor for anger being learned, over and over, across the generations.  If that is what you mean, then yes, I do think that anger can be passed down through the generations and probably can last for centuries.  This is why your insights are so valuable.  You now see this.  I would recommend that you forgive your father for his temper.  Not only may this help your relationship with your father but also be a protection for your own children in the future as you see your vulnerability for passing along the family pattern of anger.

For additional information, see Why Forgive?