The frustration-aggression hypothesis Flashcards
Who argued that all aggression was a result of frustration?
Dollard (et al.)
According to Dollard et al, how does frustration arise?
When an individual is prevented from getting what they want (cause and effect).
What is cathartic release?
Releasing the frustration through aggressive behaviour, bringing about psychological calm.
When can frustration and aggression be increased?
When an individual has a particular motivation to achieve their goal.
How does justified frustration impact aggression?
Justified = less aggressive behaviour. Legitimate reason provided for an individual to be unable to achieve their goal, reducing frustration.
How does unjustified frustration impact behaviour?
Unjustified = more aggressive behaviour. No legitimate reason provided for an individual to be unable to achieve their goal, increasing frustration.
What is displaced aggression?
When it is inappropriate/impossible to behave aggressively towards source of frustration. Individuals may take out frustration on something or someone else who is a less relevant person or object. Still provides cathartic relief.
(AO3 - can be AO1) What is the revised frustration-aggression hypothesis and why is it better?
Frustration is one of many types of unpleasant experiences that can lead to aggression. The negative feelings impact an individual and can lead to aggression - not the frustration itself. Explains why aggression occurs in the absence of frustration, original FA hypothesis fails to do so.
(AO3) What is the criticism of the theory of cathartic relief?
Lack of evidence - aggressive actions may cause more aggressive behaviour. Bushman suggested aggressive behaviours keep aggressive thoughts and feelings active in memory, increasing anger and likelihood of more aggressive behaviour. Undermine claim that cathartic relief is real, challenging validity of hypothesis.
(AO3) Describe contradictory research evidence to the frustration aggression hypothesis.
Reifman - not all aggression the result of frustration. Found as temp of baseball games increased, likelihood of aggressive behaviour increased e.g. throwing ball faster. Shows frustration also arises as a result of environment (not FA). But supports revised FA hypothesis because hot temp may cause anger (negative feelings).
(AO3) How can the determinism of the FA hypothesis be challenged?
Frustration does not always lead to aggression - Bandura and SLT theorists. Previous social learning will impact how arousal of frustration will impact behaviour. Aggression will only occur under specific circumstances they deem will lead to success due to previous reinforcement. Challenges causal relationship of FA and highlights importance of conditioning, impacting validity.
