!!! AGGRESSION

Question 1

What is the definition of aggression?

Answer 1

Aggression is any form of behaviour directed toward the goal of harming or injuring another living being who is motivated to avoid such treatment.

Question 2

What are the 2 theories of aggression?

Answer 2

The 2 theories of aggression are:

1. Instinct theory.
2. Social learning theory.

Question 3

What is the instinct theory?

Answer 3

The instinct theory:

• A trait theory.
• States that aggression is inevitable as it is genetically inherited, and is therefore predictable.
• The aggressive trait is called the ‘death instinct’ which is behaving aggressively, even when self destructive.

Question 4

What is the social learning theory?

Answer 4

The social learning theory:

• Proposed by Bandura.
• Aggression is learned through imitation of others, particularly of role models.
• Aggression is more likely to be copied if the role model is reinforced for it.
• Aggression is more likely if it is the social norm of the group, which may link to the sport being played. Eg: American football.

Question 5

What is the frustration aggression hypothesis?

Answer 5

• Frustration is caused by the environment blocking the goals of the performer, which inevitably triggers aggression.
• If the aggressive act is successful, frustration will be released through catharsis.
• If the act is unsuccessful or is punished, then there will be a further build up of aggression.

Question 6

What is the aggressive cue hypothesis?

Answer 6

The aggressive cue hypothesis:

• Frustration leads to increased arousal which creates a readiness for aggression.
• Aggression will only be triggered if provoked by a cue from the environment. e.g. if a player’s arousal is high and the referee makes a decision which is considered unfair, an aggressive act will follow.

Question 7

What is catharsis?

Answer 7

Catharsis is the process of releasing, and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions.

Question 8

What are 5 methods of calming aggression?

Answer 8

1. Control arousal levels via stress management such as relaxation.
2. Avoid situations that initiate aggressive responses.
3. Reinforce non-aggressive acts.
4. Show non-aggressive role models.
5. Punish an aggressive participant.