theories of aggression Flashcards
what are the four theories of aggression
instinct theory
frustration - agrressive hypothesis
aggression cue hypothesis
social learning theory
what is the instinct theory
suggests that we have a natural trait or predisposition to be aggressive. we genetically have a biological drive to defend ourselves.
what does the instinct theory believe
if we are provoked, we will act aggressively
agressive ‘animal’ instincts surface when faced with a threat - for survival
once aggression is released catharsis is experienced
limitations to instinct theory
-not all aggression is reactive or spontaneous, some is pre planned or learnt
-some players amy not experience catharsis and therefore aggression levels continue to grow durning performance
-the theory states that all humans are programmed to act aggressively- some people are never aggresive
-aggression is normally copied from a significant other
-aggression can be unlearnt - age and experience
frustration-aggression hypothesis diagram
drive to goal, need to win→obstacle to a goal→frustration→agression
↓punishment
↑success
↑catharsis
what does the frustration - agression hypothisis say
suggests that aggression is inevitable when goals are blocked, and the performer becomes frustrated
what does F=A mean
frustration leads to aggression
a successful release of agressing can lower the frustration level
if a coach can identify the frustration then they can help prevent the aggresive act
what happens if aggression is not released (frustration - agression hypothesis)
a form of punishment occurs leading to higher frustration resulting in further aggression
limitations of the F-A hypothesis
-not all frustration leads to aggression, some players sn control themselfs
-not all aggression is the result of frustration
-no allowance for situation/environment
what is the aggressive cue hypothesis
aggression is caused by a learning trigger
aggressive responces will only occur if a learnt ‘cue’ is present - acts as a STIMULUS
when a performer has their goal blocked, their arousal levels increase
limitations of the aggresive cue hypothesis
not all aggaression is learned
not all aggression needs a cue
a lot of performers use equipment, this does not make them all aggressive
what does the social learning theory believe
all aggression is learned by observation, by watching significant others
observe - identify - reinforce - copy
limitations of the social learning theory
aggression can be instinctive (social learning ignores traits)
the same situation might bring different responces
it doesnt state which ‘cues’ bring aggression
