Identifying the Type of Aggression
We tend to think of aggression as a very general concept. But, many psychologists and researchers (see Moyer, 1968) believe that aggression can be categorized, and thus addressed, by purpose.
In fact, there are 7 basic aggressive behavior subgroups.
- The attack on prey by a predator known as predatory aggression. Rarely is this phenomena seen among humans.
- A high level of competition between males that is intended to establish dominance is known as inter-male aggression. This is most commonly conceptualized when two rams engage in combat to establish dominance. This to can be seen reflected in human behavior.
- Some aggression is closely associated with fleeing from danger or high stress situations.This is known as fear-induced aggression. This is another type of aggression that spans the species.
- Another type of aggression may be identified when one dominant entity becomes frustrated and takes out that feeling on a weaker member of the group. This is known as irritable aggression. This too may be observed across the species.
- Another form of aggression is that of a maternal figure who lashes out to protect an of spring from a real or perceived threat. This is known as maternal aggression.
- The final form of aggression may be the only learned type. This type of aggression is demonstrated when an individual is extremely focused on obtaining some goal. It is known as instrumental aggression.
How do you counteract aggression?
You don’t. Aggression is the most basic demonstration of an inability to appropriately meet our needs for inclusion, affection and control.
Instead of counteracting how the unmet needs present, concentrate on the needs themselves.