Frustration Aggression

• F.A Hypothesis (|)

  Dollard et al. (1939) proposed that aggression arises from frustration when goals are blocked. The closer someone is to achieving their goal, the stronger their frustration and aggression. Sometimes, aggression leads to catharsis, such as punching a pillow to release pent-up anger. However, when aggression fails to resolve frustration, like yelling in traffic with no effect, it can increase irritation, as seen when a driver angrily strikes the steering wheel.
• Jumping in a queue

  Harris (1974) demonstrated the relationship between frustration and aggression by having confederates push into bus stops, cinemas, and supermarkets queues. When the confederate stood in front of the second person in line (high frustration), the level of verbal aggression was higher compared to when they stood in front of the twelfth person (low frustration).
• F.A Hypothesis (||)

  The frustration-aggression hypothesis also notes that aggression may not always target the source of frustration (known as displacement). This can happen if the source is abstract (e.g., the economy), too powerful (e.g., a strict teacher), or unavailable (e.g., someone who has left the room).
• Limitation - Limited application

  Early research into the frustration-aggression hypothesis showed that frustration doesn’t always lead to aggression, and aggression can occur without frustration. Frustration can lead to behaviors like helplessness or determination instead of aggression. Similarly, aggressive behavior may have various underlying causes. This suggests that the frustration-aggression hypothesis is limited, as it only explains aggression in certain situations, not all.
• Strength - Revised Hypothesis

  Berkowitz (1989) revised the frustration-aggression hypothesis, proposing a theory of negative affect that suggested frustration is just one of many negative emotions, including loneliness, and jealousy that can trigger aggression. According to this view, aggression can result from a range of negative emotions, not just frustration. For example, getting a low grade on an essay might lead to feelings of despair, anxiety, and determination, highlighting that frustration is part of a broader spectrum of emotional reactions that can lead to aggression.