Forensics- Hostile attribution bias (Cognitive)

Question 1

What is hostile attribution bias?

Answer 1

-Makes the assumption that others actions are a negative reaction to the self
-Spielberger, relation between HAB and aggression, cues misinterpreted, leading to hostile response/ aggressive act
-Linked to some forms of aggression e.g. reactive outbursts- Giancola, but not others, e.g. premeditative acts
-Measured in hypothetic vignettes (scenarios)

Question 2

What research was used? (Violence) (AO3)

Answer 2

-Holtz-Monroe & Hutchinson, link between HAB and DV
-Violent men= more likely to think women was negative/ has hostile intentions
-Demonstrates cognitive style which underpins the acts

Question 3

What research is used?

Answer 3

-Gudjonsson, a measure to apportion offenders blame
-Blame circumstances, environment, feeling guilt
-Gudjonsson & Singh, differ attributions depend on crime type
-Crick & Dodge, relation between HAB and child aggression, relates to both real life and hypothetical situations
-Epps & Kendall, high scored for anger/ aggression when tested for HAB

Question 4

AO3 (1)

Answer 4

-Research support
-Link between HAB and offending behaviour
-Regarded as precursor to aggression due to this
-Lead to criminal behaviour

Question 5

AO3 (2)

Answer 5

-Cannot explain all offending behaviour
-Link to impulsive but not planned aggression
-Argued to be a factor but not a full explanation