Aggression

Aggression is referred to as a forceful action or procedure especially when intended to master or dominate; hostile, injurious, destructive behavior or outlook. Aggression is the practice of making attacks or encroachments (Aggression, 2012). There are many factors that contribute to aggressive behaviors or tendencies. Aggression can attributed to biological and environmental factors. Handling aggression can vary from person to person. I had the chance to examine theories regarding aggression: Excitation Transfer Theory, Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic Viewpoint, Ethological Viewpoint, Frustration-Aggression Hypothesis, and Displaced Aggression Theory.

The two theories that I thought described the reason for aggression are: Frustration Aggression theory and Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic viewpoint. Frustration theory suggests that the unexpected occurrence of frustration increases the likelihood of aggression. Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic viewpoint suggests that all behavior has a cause and reason. Human functioning is based upon the interaction of drives and forces within the person, particularly unconscious and between the different structures of the person. Childhood experiences are thought to influence adult behaviors.

Difference between the Two Theories (Aggression, 2012)

Frustration Aggression Theory:

* Frustration leads to some sort of aggression

* Aggression is always the result of frustration

* View aggression as a valid response to the frustration

* Gap between expectations and attainments

* Aggression an externally elicited drive

* Appropriate environmental cues must be present to act aggressively

* Some cues deserve an aggressive response

Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic Theory (Viewpoint)

* Aggression as human destiny

* Aggression acts as a powerful instinct

* Repressed urges must be released safely

* Society is a means of regulating aggression

* Genetically determined to be aggressive

* Childhood...