Frustration can be considered an inner cause of aggression because it is the emotional response that emerges when individuals are blocked from achieving their goals or desires. When individuals are unable to attain what they want or expect, they may become frustrated, leading to feelings of anger, resentment, and irritability. This frustration can then manifest as aggressive behavior as a way to relieve the built-up tension and vent their emotions.
The frustration aggression hypothesis, proposed by Dollard et al. in 1939, suggests that frustration always leads to some form of aggression, and that aggression is always a result of frustration. This hypothesis posits that when individuals are prevented from reaching their goals, they experience frustration which then triggers aggression as a way to release the pent-up energy. However, it is important to note that not all individuals respond to frustration with aggression, as other factors such as individual differences and situational cues can also influence how frustration is expressed.
For example, consider a student who works hard all semester to earn a good grade on a project, only to have their work criticized harshly by their teacher. This student may become frustrated by the perceived unfairness of the situation, leading them to lash out at the teacher in a fit of aggression. Another example could be a driver stuck in traffic on their way to an important appointment, who becomes increasingly agitated and starts honking their horn and yelling at other drivers.
In both of these cases, frustration served as the catalyst for aggressive behavior, highlighting the connection between inner emotional states and outward expressions of aggression. By understanding the role that frustration plays in triggering aggression, individuals can work to manage their emotions and find healthier ways to cope with difficult situations.
explain frustration as an inner cause of aggression. include the the frustration aggression hypothesis also with examples
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