The evoluntionary explanation of aggression

• What do evolutionary explanations of aggression suggest about its function?

  It aids individual survival and reproductive potential
• Why does competition arise according to evolutionary explanations of aggression?

  Resources are limited, necessitating competition
• How does aggression have an adaptive purpose in evolution?

  It facilitates survival and adaptation to the environment
• What advantage did aggressive males have in terms of reproduction?

  They could secure and retain partners
• Why might younger men be more aggressive than older men?

  They have not established resources to attract mates
• What did data on arrest rates for violent behavior suggest about aggression?

  Younger men are more likely to be aggressive
• What strategies have men evolved to deter partners from adultery?

  Direct guarding and negative inducements
• What is one strength of evolutionary explanations of aggression?

  There is supportive evidence from studies
• What did Wilson et al find regarding sexual jealousy and violence?

  Jealous partners were more likely to be violent
• Why might self-report surveys be unreliable in studying aggression?

  Participants may distort the truth about behavior
• What is a limitation of using self-report methods for aggression studies?

  They may not reveal the true extent of behavior
• What is a further limitation of the evolutionary explanation of aggression?

  It is biologically deterministic
• Why is biological determinism considered socially sensitive?

  It implies aggression is not a choice
• How could the evolutionary explanation of aggression be misused in court?

  Men might claim reduced responsibility for aggression
• What are the key components of the evolutionary explanation of aggression?

  • Aggression aids survival and reproduction
  • Competition arises from limited resources
  • Younger men may be more aggressive
  • Strategies to deter adultery include guarding and inducements
• What are the strengths and limitations of the evolutionary explanation of aggression?

  Strengths:

  • Supportive evidence from studies (e.g., Wilson et al)

  
  

  Limitations:

  • Self-report surveys may be unreliable
  • Biologically deterministic and socially sensitive
  • Potential misuse in legal contexts