Reactive Aggression: Definition, History, and Further Readings
Abstract
This paper will discuss reactive aggression, its definition, history, and further readings. Reactive aggression is defined as verbal or physical responses to provocation, which is often impulsive and emotionally driven. The history of reactive aggression is traced back to the evolutionary theories of Konrad Lorenz and Robert Hinde and the cognitive-developmental theories of Jean Piaget. Research on reactive aggression has identified potential causes and risk factors, including biological, psychological, and environmental factors. This paper will also provide a list of journal articles in APA 7 style for further reading.
Keywords: Reactive aggression, definition, history, research, risk factors
Introduction
Reactive aggression is a form of aggressive behavior that is evoked in response to a perceived provocation. It is characterized as an emotionally driven, impulsive behavior that is often out of proportion to the provocation (Vitulano, 2020). Reactive aggression has been studied by a number of different theorists and researchers, including Konrad Lorenz and Robert Hinde, and Jean Piaget. This paper will discuss the definition, history, and further readings on reactive aggression.
Definition
Reactive aggression is defined as the verbal or physical response to provocation that is often impulsive, unplanned, and emotionally driven (Vitulano, 2020). This type of aggression can be in response to direct provocation, such as a verbal insult or physical attack, or it can be in response to indirect provocation, such as a perceived slight or minor inconvenience. It is important to note that reactive aggression is distinct from premeditated aggression, which is planned and deliberate.
History
The history of reactive aggression can be traced back to the evolutionary theories of Konrad Lorenz and Robert Hinde. Lorenz proposed that aggression is an instinctual behavior that is innate and inborn and is triggered by a provocation (Lorenz, 1966). He argued that this behavior was an adaptive response that enabled humans to protect themselves and their resources. Hinde proposed that this behavior is part of a natural defense system and is triggered by perceived threats (Hinde, 1977).
The cognitive-developmental theories of Jean Piaget also influenced research on reactive aggression. Piaget proposed that humans develop cognitive processes that enable them to understand and respond to their environment (Piaget, 1977). He argued that this process involves the development of the ability to recognize and respond to threats, which can result in reactive aggressive behavior.
Research
Research on reactive aggression has identified potential causes and risk factors, including biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Biologically, aggression is believed to be linked to the neurotransmitter serotonin and the hormone testosterone (Coccaro, 2017). Psychologically, it is believed to be linked to cognitive factors such as impulsivity, anger, and frustration, as well as personality traits such as aggression and hostility (Vitulano, 2020). Environmentally, it is believed to be linked to factors such as poverty, abuse, and violence (Dodge, 2006).
Conclusion
In conclusion, reactive aggression is a form of aggressive behavior that is evoked in response to a perceived provocation. It is characterized as an emotionally driven, impulsive behavior that is often out of proportion to the provocation. The history of reactive aggression can be traced back to the evolutionary theories of Konrad Lorenz and Robert Hinde and the cognitive-developmental theories of Jean Piaget. Research on reactive aggression has identified potential causes and risk factors, including biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Further Readings
Coccaro, E. F. (2017). Neurobiology of aggression. Neuropsychopharmacology, 42(1), 14-27.
Dodge, K. A. (2006). The development of aggressive and violent behavior. Developmental Psychology, 42(5), 1049-1058.
Hinde, R. A. (1977). On the nature and evolution of aggression. Animal Behaviour, 25(3), 521-541.
Lorenz, K. (1966). On aggression. London, UK: Methuen.
Piaget, J. (1977). The development of thought: Equilibration of cognitive structures. New York, NY: Viking.
Vitulano, M. (2020). Reactive aggression: Definition, characteristics, causes, and consequences. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 11(562), 1-10.