Aggression: Brain Functioning

Question 1

What is serotonin and what does it play a role in?

Answer 1

• a neurotransmitter that is linked to mood and happiness

- plays a role in social decision making.

Question 2

How might serotonin explain aggression?

Answer 2

• reduces aggression by preventing stimulation of the amygdala
• amygdala stimulation increases aggression so by preventing stimulation, serotonin reduces aggression

Question 3

Serotonin as an explanation for aggression: Mann et al

Answer 3

• gave Ps a drug (dexfenfluramine) that reduces serotonin levels in the brain
• Ps took a questionnaire to assess hostility and aggression
• hostility & aggression were raised in males but not in females

Question 4

Serotonin as an explanation for aggression: Popova et al

Answer 4

• found that dogs that were selectively bred for domestication and docile temperament has increased serotonin levels over generations

Question 5

What is dopamine?

Answer 5

• a neurotransmitter associated with reward and pleasure

Question 6

How might dopamine explain aggression?

Answer 6

• increased levels can result in increased aggression

- e.g. increased aggression in schizophrenic patients are believed to be due to raised dopamine levels in the brain

Question 7

Dopamine as an explanation for aggression: Lavine (1997)

Answer 7

• found that increased dopamine through the use of amphetamine was associated with increased aggression
• suggests that higher dopamine levels correlate with increased aggression