Microsoft Word Chapter 1 done doc

14
 
PERSPECTIVES AND CAUSES OF 
AGGRESSION 
 
Unit structure : 
14.0 Objectives 
14.1 Definition of Aggression 
14.2 Perspectives on Aggression 
14.2.1 The Role of Biological Factors
14.2.2 Drive Theories
14.2.3 Modern Theories of Aggression
14.3 Causes of Human Aggression: Social, Cultural, Personal, 
and Situational 
14.3.1 Social causes of Aggression
14.3.2 Cultural causes of Aggression 
14.3.3 Personal Causes of Aggression
14.3.4 Situational Causes of Aggression 
14.4 Questions 
Aggression is one of the most potential dangers to mankind. 
It is a greatest stumbling block for one’s self development and 
growth. Aggression and violence have been experienced by almost 
all societies and times. The two world wars, terrorist attacks, racial 
conflicts, communal clashes, etc., have gradually increased over 
the years. Whether aggression is manifested by individuals or 
groups (including nations), it is the most destructive force in social 
relations and consequently an important social issue. A major 
concern in either individual or group aggression is its origin.
 
14.0 OBJECTIVES : 
 
After studying this unit you will be able to: 
• Understand the various perspectives of aggression 
• Appreciate the various causes of Aggression including the 
various social and personal causes of Aggression. 
 
14.1 DEFINITION OF AGGRESSION : 
 
Aggression is behavior, verbal or physical, intended to 
physically hurt or harm in some other way another person or thing. 
Two important definitions of aggression are as follows : 

---

133
a) According to Dollard et al., aggression can be defined as “a 
behaviour whose goal is the injury of the person towards whom 
it is directed”. Supposedly this includes physical and verbal 
aggression. 
b) Baron and Bryne has defined aggression in the following words 
“aggression is any form of behaviour directed towards the goal 
of harming or injuring another living being who is motivated to 
avoid such treatment”. 
Aggression is defined as behavior aimed at causing harm or 
pain, psychological harm, or personal injury or physical distraction. 
An important aspect of aggressive behavior is the intention 
underlying the actor's behavior. Not all behaviors resulting in harm 
are considered aggression. For example, a doctor who makes an 
injection that harms people, but who did so with the intent of 
preventing the further spread of illness, is not considered to have 
committed an aggressive act.
Aggression can be direct or indirect, active or passive, and 
physical or verbal.