Conceptual
- The catharsis theory of aggression holds that:
- aggressive impulses, if kept bottled up, will eventually fade away.
- one act of aggression usually leads to further aggression.
- one act of aggression reduces the likelihood of further acts of aggression.
- frustration leads to aggression.
Why did you select this answer?
Applied
- The Iroquois Indians lived in peace for hundreds of years as a hunting nation, but in the seventeenth century, trade introduced by Europeans brought the Iroquois into competition with a neighboring tribe. A series of tribal wars developed, and the Iroquois ultimately became ferocious and successful warriors. This series of events suggest that:
- warlike behavior is the result of uncontrollable aggressive instincts.
- competition inevitably leads to violence.
- changing social conditions can lead to changes in aggressive behavior.
- aggressive behavior ensures evolutionary survival.
Why is this the best answer?
Research/textbook
- Bushman and Bonacci had an experiment in which people watched violent or sexually explicit or neutral TV shows with advertisements. Under which conditions did men and women recall the advertised products? How did the experimenters explain the reasons for this outcome?
Research/reader
Article #26
- Explain Malamuth’s findings on the predictors of naturalistic sexual aggression.
Personal Relevance
- Some people believe that exposure to, or participation in, aggressive behavior is beneficial because it allows people to release their pent-up aggression. Where do you stand on this issue? Do you agree or disagree with this premise? Be sure to back up your answer with examples of relevant research.
Summary
- Most everyone would agree that reducing human aggression is a worthwhile goal—one that may be crucial to our survival as a species. Summarize two of the several methods for achieving this goal. Support your choices with the relevant research.
