PSYU3399 Aggression Flashcards
What Is aggression? What is violence?
Behaviour directed toward another individual that is carried out with the immediate intent to cause harm. And the target is motivated to avoid the behaviour. Violence is an extension of this with extreme harm as the goal.
What did Archer, then Lorenz (ducks) and Elbesfeldt learn from animal behaviour about aggression?
That aggression is instinctual, especially in males and triggered in certain circumstances which needs release. However these findings, especially catharsis lack empirical support for animals and humans.
How is aggression viewed in the DSM- V?
It is a diagnostic symptom for many disorders and is also dealt with in a number of interventions.
How does cognitive neo-association theory explain aggression? (Berkowitz, Huesmann, Dodge)
Assumes that memories, emotions, thoughts and plans are linked together in the brain and that when one part of this network is activated the rest follows and the stronger the links, stronger impact on actions. If fight responses are activated aggression is a likely outcome.
What is script theory in relation to aggression?
When a situation is very similar we tend to take the same course of action automatically (eg. DV)
What does developmental psyc teach us about aggression?
There is constancy over lifetime but this is influence by parents, media and environment. There are gene-environment interactions. Often involves a hostile attributional bias.
What emotions are connected with aggression? What is Dollard’s frustration- aggression hypothesis?
Anger, shame , humiliation, jealousy.
Based on Freud’s ideas, when blocked from achieving a goal frustration ensues which leads to aggression in all cases (not entirely true!)
According to evolutionary psyc why is aggression a thing?
Its hard wired for survival and reproductive success by coopting resources, defense, rivalry, status and deterring infidelity.
What concerns does health psychology bring to the study of aggression?
Aggressive individuals have worse physical, mental health and mortality. Injury and trauma are also experienced by the victims of aggression.
Why are learning theories influential in aggression research, underpinning other theories?
Aggression is earned by classical conditioning and instrumental learning (reward driven etc) explaining the acquisition and maintenance. Bandurra’s social learning theory also explains this well.
According to Bandurra’s experiment who were more likely to copy aggressive models?
- Respected/like high status
- Familiar or similar
- Who are rewarded for behaviour
- If we have self-efficacy for aggression
How are genes linked to aggression?
Epigenetics are of course key. 16/17 genes linked with aggression but never direct without environment or predisposition. Particularly: polymorphism in MAOA (child maltreatment) and serotonin transporter gene.
How are neurotransmitters and hormones linked with aggression?
Neuro: serotonin & impulse control. High GABA in animals. Dopamine with ADHD.
Hormones: high testosterone, low cortisol + oxytocin. Low oestrogen + progesterone.
How does the biological approach: Attentuation of the stress system ; underarousal and excitation transfer explain aggression?
Low aggression is linked biologically with underarousal (lower resting rate of a lot). When people are aroused they may respond with anger or euphoria just based on their appraisal of the situation (when injected with adrenalin)
What are the 3 most significant sub disciplines to the study of aggression?
Learning, cognition and social psyc
