Introduction to Aggression

Aggression - Behaviors that result in psychological or physical harm to self, others or objects in the environment. There is an intent to cause harm.

Types of Aggression

• Hostile - reactive and often angry aggression in response to a perceived threat, it has an emotional basis. There is an intent to cause harm

• Instrumental - aggression that serves a purpose & is deliberate.

• Violent - Refers to aggression that has extreme physical harm, such as injury or death, as its goal

• Verbal or Non-Physical - Aggression that does not involve physical harm, such as yelling or screaming

• Physical - Aggression that involves hurting someone physically

Violence Vs Aggression

Violence - the use of physical force with the intent to injure someone or destroy property

Aggression - Generally defined as angry or violent feelings or behaviour

Nature Vs Nurture Debate & Aggression

Nature - Biological Explanations

Nurture - Environmental Influences