What are they key concepts of the social approach that explain aggression?
Operant conditioning - reinforcement
Social learning theory
How does operant conditioning?
Time of reinforcement - Variable interval reinforcement - reinforcement may not happen every single time - so you carry on with the aggressive behaviour till you get reinforced - cycle
Type of reinforcement - tangible and intangible -
Tangible - physical reward - Money or food
Intangible - Feelings and social status
Commit aggressive behaviour to gain these rewards
How does the social learning theory?
Observing aggressive behaviour via media or social environment - imitate as it is seen as socially acceptable
Vicarious learning - second had reinforcement - overserving others reinforcement for their aggressive behaviour - you do it to to get the reward
What are the strengths?
Reduce aggressive behaviour - policy makers - create programmes based on reinforcement - mentoring
Explanation of how children learn aggression - observing, imitating and vicarious reinforcement - training grounds for aggressive behaviour
What are the weaknesses?
Doesn't explain hostile aggression -impulsive - get punishment but don't take it so carry on behaviour - better explanations through different approaches
