Psychology 3720F/G Chapter Notes - Chapter 4: Fighting Instinct, Konrad Lorenz, Lateral Hypothalamus

• School: Western University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: Psychology 3720F/G
• Professor: Doug Hazlewood

Document Summary

Instinct theories: sigmund freud, early writings: all human behaviours stems from eros (the life instinct) An active instinct for death and destruction. It really seems as though it is necessary for us to destroy some other thing or person in order not to destroy ourselves a sad disclosure indeed for the moralist : a ray of hope. The safe expression of aggression (e. g. beating up a pillow) could bring about a discharge of thanatos and reduce the likelihood of subsequent aggression. Called this processes catharsis (more on it next week) It spreads animals out over larger territory (increased resources) Ensures that only the strongest males will reproduce and strengthen the genetic make-up of the species. Promotes defense of the young: aggression is essential for the survival of the species, how aggressive energy from fighting instinct is generated and released: The aggressive energy continually generated at a constant rate.