Ethological Explanation

• Adaptive

  The ethological explanation of aggression suggests that it serves adaptive purposes, such as promoting survival and establishing dominance hierarchies. This is seen in animals and humans alike. For example, aggressive behavior can lead to the spread of a species over a wider area and reduce competition for resources. Additionally, aggression can help establish social hierarchies in which individuals with dominant status gain access to resources such as food and mates.
• Rituals

  According to Konrad Lorenz (1966), a ritual is a sequence of actions performed in a specific order. Through his observations, Lorenz found that aggressive interactions between animals of the same species typically resulted in minimal physical harm. Instead, these confrontations were characterized by prolonged periods of ritualistic signaling, such as showing teeth and fangs and making threatening facial expressions.
• Innate releasing mechanisms


  Lorenz proposed the concept of ‘innate releasing mechanisms’ (IRMs), which serve as triggers for aggressive behavior in response to a stimulus. The stimulus, also known as a ‘releaser,’ releases the built-up aggression, and the cycle repeats until the next stimulus. For example, when a cat encounters a dog, the IRM allows the release of aggression through a predetermined pattern.
• Fixed action patterns


  Lorenz proposed the concept of ‘innate releasing mechanisms’ (IRMs), which serve as triggers for aggressive behavior in response to a stimulus. The stimulus, also known as a ‘releaser,’  releases the built-up aggression, and the cycle repeats until the next stimulus. For example, when a cat encounters a dog, the IRM allows the release of aggression through a predetermined pattern.
• The role of F.A.P in male stickleback aggression(|)

  Niko Tinbergen conducted a study in 1951 to explore the aggressive behaviours of male sticklebacks during the mating season. Male sticklebacks are highly territorial at this time, characterized by the presence of a red spot on their underbelly. Upon the intrusion of another male into their territory, a series of highly-stereotyped aggressive behaviors are initiated
• The role of F.A.P in male stickleback aggression
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  Tinbergen's research showed that the sight of a red spot on another male stickleback fish triggered a Fixed Action Pattern (FAP) of aggression. He also found that wooden models without the red spot did not provoke aggression. Additionally, the aggressive FAP followed the same pattern in each encounter, without needing any extra stimuli.
• Limitation - Cultural influence on aggression

  Richard Nisbett (1993) found that rates of aggression-driven homicides were higher among white men in the southern United States compared to the northern states. He linked this difference to a "culture of honor" in the south, which was less common in the north. This suggests that social norms and cultural factors can influence aggression, challenging the idea that aggression is only determined by biology, as suggested by the ethological approach.
• Limitation - Evolving view on F.A.P

  Lorenz’s theory that Fixed Action Patterns (FAPs) are innate and unchanging has been challenged over time. Psychologist Morton Hunt’s 1973 study demonstrated that FAPs are significantly influenced by environmental factors and learning experiences. For example, the pattern of aggressive behavior can vary in each encounter and even among individuals.