A03

• * evidence from cases et al 1995?

  • genetically engineered mice with MAOA-L
  • found that these had atypical aggression levels & behaviour
  • as adult mice showed increased levels of aggression
  • shows genetic influence
  • having faulty MAOA-L found to increase aggression due to failure of breaking down serotonin
  • so increased levels of serotonin so higher levels of aggression
  • further adds validity to explanation of role of genetics in aggressive behaviour
• contradictory evidence from cases et al?

  • more ethical to research on animals
  • too unethical to genetically modify humans to see effects of aggression
  • HOWEVER difficult to generalise findings to humans as our biology is much more complex
  • we have different intellectual/social/emotional experiences that affect behaviour
  • so cannot say that having faulty MAOA gene in humans will cause aggression same as mice
• * evidence form brunner 1993?

  • studied 28 male members of large dutch family who were repeatedly involved in aggressive/violen crime - rape/attempted murder/assault
  • found that all these men had MAOA-L gene
  • men with defective MAOA-L gene had increased levels of aggression meaning less of enzyme so increased levels of aggression
  • suggests genetics must play role in aggression
  • those who were most aggressive possessed faulty gene
• X contradictory social psychological cause?

  • slt would suggest that instead of being down to innate biological factors (nature) aggression can be explained in terms of environmental exposure (nurture)
  • believes its a learnt behaviour developed through observation & imitation of role models - providing theyre vicariously reinforced
  • ignores role of environment
  • would be best to look at aggression from more holistic pov & take into account more environmental factors - learning
• X biologically determinstic?

  • pro: cause & effect so empirical & used to develop practical applications to treat agg
  • allows us predict & prevent future behaviour eg identify whos at risk look at genetic code & give coping mechanisms to handle anger
  • con: implies that aggression caused by peoples genetics - out of our control/not in free will
  • potential socially sensitive - criminals being absolved - less responsible for crimes due to inherited characteristics
  • may upset/offend victims/families
  • feel removal of blame minimises significance of trauma & excuse/normalise aggression in others'