Chapter 12, Problem 1RQ1

Summary Introduction

Introduction

For social psychologists, aggression is outlined as a purposeful behavior that is directed at inflicting either physical or psychological pain. The intent to cause harm is what differentiates aggression from assertiveness. Evolutionary psychologists posit that physical aggression is programmed into males because it allows them to protect their group and preserve their genes. However, there are some factors that evolutionary theories of aggression fail to account for in their postulations.

Explanation of Solution

Correct answer and explanation

The best answer is (B), in which there are different levels of aggression that occur throughout cultures. The majority of social psychologists posit that aggression is more of an optional strategy: The capacity for aggressive behavior is present in humans when they are born, but the when, where, how, and whether we express is learned and is more contingent on both our culture and circumstances. We seem to have an inborn tendency to strike out when provoked, but whether we do so depends on these innate tendencies, various learned inhibitory reactions, and the specific nature of the social scenario.

Explanation for incorrect statements

Option (A) refers to different levels of testosterone among men. While testosterone levels can differ among groups of people, most of us often get carried away with the notion that men tend to suffer from some type of testosterone poisoning. Most studies are correlational. So, option (a) is incorrect.

Option (C) refers to genetic influences on behavior. However, these evolutionary theories of aggression do indeed account for the role that genetics play in influencing our behavior. So, option (c) is incorrect.

Option (D) refers to differences between bonobos and chimpanzees. However, evolutionary theories of aggression do actually account for the differences between these primates. So, option (d) is incorrect.

Therefore, the options (A), (C), and (D) are incorrect.