Theories of aggression

Question 1

What is the instinct theory of aggression

Answer 1

-Views aggression as being a natural and innate response
-Humans developed aggression as a survival instinct

Question 2

What is the Frustration-aggression hypothesis

Answer 2

-Frustration will always lead to aggression
-Any blocking of goals increases an individuals drive, thus increasing aggression and frustration
-If success follows, the aggression leads to catharsis

Question 3

What is the Aggressive cue hypothesis

Answer 3

-For aggression to occur certain stimuli must be present
-These stimuli are cues for performer which are subconsciously linked to aggression e.g ice hockey sticks
-Frustration causes anger and arousal and this creates a readiness for aggression
-e.g. a player sees a colleague fouled then decides to join in

Question 4

What is the social learning theory

Answer 4

-Aggression is learned by observation of others behaviour
-Imitation of this aggressive behaviour is then reinforced by social acceptance
-e.g. If we see a team mate fouling an opponent and this stops them playing well, it is reinforced and copied