PSY220H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Ethnic Conflict, Equity Theory, Mass Media
Document Summary
Frustration does not always lead to aggression directly toward the source. Perhaps what causes aggression is relative deprivation the perception that you (or your group) have less than you deserve, less than you have been led to expect, or less than people similar to you have. Actions by others that tend to trigger aggression in the recipient, often because these actions are perceived as stemming from malicious intent. Social learning theory suggests that we learn social behaviours, such as aggression, by observing others and imitating them and by being rewarded or punished. Frustrating, physically uncomfortable, insulting situations all increase arousal. Arousal combined with hostile thoughts and feelings can lead to aggression. An object that is associated with aggressive response (e. g. a gun) whose mere presence can increase the probability of aggression. Being excluded from a group of peers can lead to considerable aggression. After experiencing social rejection we are less able to regulate and control our behaviour.
