Untitled Quiz

Aggression Definition

• Aggression is behavior intended to harm another person who is motivated to avoid that harm.
• Key characteristics of aggression include observable behavior, intent to harm, being directed towards people, and the recipient's desire to avoid harm.

Measuring Aggression

• Aggression can be measured through various methods, including self-reports, observations, and physiological measures.

Situational Factors Influencing Aggression

• Frustration: Experiencing frustration can increase the likelihood of aggression.
• Provocation: Direct or indirect provocation from others can trigger aggressive responses.
• Negative Mood/Affect: People in a negative mood are more likely to act aggressively.
• Aversive Stimulation: Exposure to unpleasant stimuli, like heat, noise, or crowding, can increase aggression.
• Perceived Anonymity: Feeling anonymous or less identifiable can lower inhibitions and increase aggression.
• Social Stress & Rejection: Experiencing social stress or rejection can contribute to increased aggression.
• Intoxication: Alcohol and drug use can impair judgment and increase aggression.
• Weapons Effect: The presence of weapons can act as aggression-eliciting stimuli, increasing the likelihood of aggressive behavior.
• Models: Observing aggressive behavior from others can increase the likelihood of imitating that behavior.

Person Factors Influencing Aggression

• The Role of Hormones: Hormones, particularly testosterone, have been linked to increased aggression.
• Impulse Control: People with poor impulse control may be more likely to engage in aggression.
• Executive (Dys)function: Deficits in executive functions, like planning and reasoning, can contribute to aggressive behavior.
• Attribution Biases: Individuals with a tendency to attribute hostile intentions to others are more prone to aggression.
• Trait Angry/Hostility: Individuals with high levels of trait anger and hostility are more likely to engage in aggressive behavior.
• Personality: Certain personality traits, such as narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism, have been associated with aggression.