The Frustration-Regression Hypothesis (FRH) is a theory proposed by psychoanalyst John Dollard and sociologist Neal Miller in 1939 to explain how individuals cope with the frustration of not being able to achieve a desired goal. FRH suggests that when a person is faced with an unmet goal, they will resort to more “primitive” or “regression” behaviors. These behaviors may include aggression, withdrawal, or a return to a less developed level of functioning.
The FRH is based on the principles of Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, which suggests that people’s psychological behavior is driven by underlying unconscious forces. In this case, the frustration of not achieving a desired goal is thought to lead to a regression in behavior, which is an attempt to restore the psychological equilibrium of the individual.
The FRH has been used to explain a variety of behaviors, such as drug abuse, criminal behavior, and aggression. Research suggests that people who have experienced frustration and are unable to resolve it through other means may resort to more primitive and maladaptive behaviors as a means of restoring equilibrium. Studies have also shown that people who are more prone to frustration are more likely to engage in aggressive and criminal behaviors.
The FRH has been criticized for its lack of empirical evidence and its reliance on psychoanalytic theory. Some researchers have argued that the FRH is too simplistic and that other factors, such as poverty, social status, and cultural norms, may play a role in how people respond to frustration.
Despite its criticisms, the FRH remains an important psychological theory in understanding how people cope with frustration. Further research into the FRH is needed in order to better understand how it influences behavior.
References
Dollard, J., & Miller, N. (1939). Frustration and aggression. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press.
Lefkowitz, M. M., Eron, L. D., Walder, L. O., & Huesmann, L. R. (1977). Growing up to be violent: A longitudinal study of the development of aggression. New York, NY: Pergamon.
Pasupathi, M., & Lindquist, K. (2007). Regressing to aggression: The frustration-aggression hypothesis revisited. Aggressive Behavior, 33, 81-92.
Raine, A., Meloy, J. R., Bihrle, S., Stoddard, J., LaCoco, A., & Buchsbaum, M. (1998). Reduced prefrontal and increased subcortical brain functioning assessed using positron emission tomography in predatory and affective murderers. Behavioral Sciences and the Law, 16, 319-332.