Ethological explanation of aggression Evaluation Flashcards
STRENGTH: Some supporting research evidence
Explain
-Research Brunner et al shows that the low activity variant of the MAOA gene is closely associated with aggressive behaviour in humans, suggesting an innate biological basis.
STRENGTH: Some supporting research evidence
Evidence
-There is also evidence for aggression in the brain -activity limbic system (amygdala) triggers aggressive behaviour in humans and other animals
STRENGTH: Some supporting research evidence
Link
The ethological explanation argues that aggression is genetically determined, therefore its validity is supported by evidence which demonstrates the genetic and physiological basis of aggression.
LIMITATION: Fixed action patterns aren’t that ‘fixed’
Evidence
Hunt points out that sequences of behaviour that appear to be fixed and unchanging are greatly influenced by environmental factors and learning experiences.
LIMITATION: Fixed action patterns aren’t that ‘fixed’
Explain
FAPs are more flexible than implied by the term ‘fixed’ (therefore has changed to modal action pattern)
LIMITATION: Fixed action patterns aren’t that ‘fixed’
Link
The flexibility of FAPs suggests aggressive behaviours are affected by environmental influences, challenging validity of the ethological explanation
LIMITATION: Evidence against ritualistic aggression
Evidence
Goodall observed male chimps from one community systematically slaugter the members of another group in a premeditated fashion
LIMITATION: Evidence against ritualistic aggression
Explain
This happened despite the victims offering signals of appeasement - these did not inhibit the aggression of the attacking chimps as predicted by the ethological explanation.
LIMITATION: Evidence against ritualistic aggression
Link
Goodall’s observations challenge the view of the ethological explanation that aggression has evolved into a self limiting and relatively physically harmless ritual.
