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Frustration-Aggression Hypothesis

The frustration-aggression hypothesis, proposed by Dollard, Doob, Miller, Mowrer, and Sears in 1939, suggests that frustration is a significant cause of aggression. According to this hypothesis, when individuals experience frustration – the blocking of their efforts to attain a goal – they are likely to react with aggression as a means of alleviating the frustration and restoring their sense of control or achieving their goal.

Frustration arises when individuals encounter obstacles, setbacks, or barriers that impede their progress towards desired outcomes. This frustration can stem from various sources, such as interpersonal conflicts, environmental constraints, or personal limitations. When individuals are unable to resolve the source of frustration directly, they may redirect their frustration into aggressive behavior towards others or the source of frustration itself.

The frustration-aggression hypothesis proposes that the intensity of aggression is directly proportional to the magnitude and duration of the frustration experienced. Additionally, the presence of aggressive cues or models in the environment can further increase the likelihood of aggressive behavior in response to frustration.

However, it is essential to note that not all instances of frustration lead to aggression, and aggression can occur in the absence of frustration. The frustration-aggression hypothesis primarily highlights the role of frustration as a triggering factor for aggressive behavior and provides insights into the psychological processes underlying aggression.

While the frustration-aggression hypothesis has received empirical support in various studies, it has also been subject to criticism and refinement over time. Researchers have identified moderators and boundary conditions that influence the relationship between frustration and aggression, such as individual differences, situational factors, and cultural norms. Despite its limitations, the frustration-aggression hypothesis remains a foundational concept in the study of aggression and provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between frustration, emotion, and behavior.