Question 1

What is the difference between the frustration-aggression hypothesis and social learning theory?

Accepted Answer

The frustration-aggression hypothesis (Dollard et al.) proposes that aggression is always caused by frustration, which creates a drive to harm the source of frustration. In contrast, social learning theory (Bandura) argues that aggression is learned through observation and imitation of role models, and is influenced by reinforcement and punishment. The key difference is that frustration-aggression is a drive theory (internal), while social learning is a cognitive-behavioural theory (external). Evaluation: Frustration-aggression is too simplistic and doesn't explain instrumental aggression, whereas social learning accounts for learning but ignores biological factors.

Question 2

How does the MAOA gene affect aggression?

Accepted Answer

The MAOA gene codes for the enzyme monoamine oxidase A, which breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. A variant (low-activity MAOA) leads to lower enzyme activity, resulting in higher levels of these neurotransmitters. This is linked to increased aggression, but only when combined with environmental triggers like childhood maltreatment (Caspi et al., 2002). This is a classic example of gene-environment interaction. However, the effect is small and not deterministic; many people with the low-activity variant do not become aggressive.

Question 3

What is institutional aggression and how is it explained?

Accepted Answer

Institutional aggression refers to aggressive behaviour within institutions like prisons, schools, or military units. Two main explanations are the importation model (aggression is brought into the institution by individuals' pre-existing traits and experiences) and the deprivation model (aggression arises from the stressful environment, e.g., overcrowding, loss of autonomy). For example, in prisons, the importation model suggests that inmates with a history of violence are more likely to be aggressive, while the deprivation model points to factors like lack of privacy. Both models have research support, but they are not mutually exclusive.

Question 4

Does watching violent video games cause aggression?

Accepted Answer

Research is mixed. Some studies (e.g., Anderson & Bushman, 2001) show a correlation between playing violent video games and increased aggressive thoughts and behaviour in the short term. However, these studies often use artificial measures of aggression (e.g., noise blasts) and may not reflect real-world violence. Longitudinal studies (e.g., Ferguson, 2015) find little evidence for long-term effects. Social learning theory suggests that violent games provide models for imitation, but catharsis theory argues they may reduce aggression. Overall, the effect is likely small and moderated by individual differences (e.g., personality, family environment).

Question 5

What is the role of serotonin in aggression?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that generally inhibits aggression. Low levels of serotonin are associated with increased impulsivity and aggression. For example, studies have found lower serotonin metabolites in the cerebrospinal fluid of violent offenders (e.g., Virkkunen et al., 1994). Animal studies also show that reducing serotonin increases aggression. However, the relationship is complex: serotonin interacts with other systems (e.g., testosterone) and environmental factors. Some research suggests that serotonin's role is more about impulse control than aggression per se.

Question 6

How can evolutionary psychology explain aggression?

Accepted Answer

Evolutionary psychology explains aggression as an adaptive behaviour that increases survival and reproductive success. For example, males may use aggression to compete for mates (sexual jealousy) or resources. The 'hunter-gatherer' theory suggests aggression helped in hunting and defending territory. Sexual jealousy is a key concept: males are more likely to be aggressive towards rivals to ensure paternity certainty. However, this explanation is criticized for being post-hoc (justifying any behaviour) and for ignoring cultural variation. It also tends to be gender-biased, focusing on male aggression.

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