aggression

Aggression

Feelings of anger/antipathy resulting in hostile/violent behaviour, readiness to attack/confront

Biological perspective (role of the limbic system) (1)

Part of the brain - involved in the control of emotional responses

(2)

Plays a crucial role in aggression by processing threats & triggering emotional responses

Amygdala

Argued to have important influence - if it malfunctions due to damage, atypical development or a tumour - levels of testosterone can be raised, making aggressive behaviour more likely

Role of serotonin (1)

Neurotransmitter that regulates feelings of wellbeing - associated with control of aggressive responses

(2)

low levels linked to reduced ability to control aggressive impulses

(3)

Certain drugs - thought to be related to lowering serotonin levels in some people - can cause depressing mood & increasing aggression - has led to some drugs being withdrawn

Role of testosterone (1)

An androgen (male hormone). Females have it but at lower levels

(2)

Increased levels = thought to be related to increased levels of aggression & aggressive responses eg provocation

(3)

Also influences activity of serotonin in the brain & so can reduce serotonergetic activity

(4)

Appears testosterone doesn’t just have an affect in solation - also mediates effects of other biochemicals

Role of chromosomes (1)

Research shows males may be more aggressive than females due to chromosomal makeup of men (XY rather than XX)

(2)

One study showed a proportion of very violent male criminals had an extra Y chromosome (XYY)