Neural and Hormonal mechanisms in Aggression

Everything you need to know for Neural and hormonal. What you need for a full essay question on it.

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  • Created by: Grace
  • Created on: 06-01-13 14:38
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  • Neural and Hormonal Mechanisms in Aggression
    • Neurotransmitter = Serotonin
      • Chemicals that enable impulses within the brain to be transmitted from one area of the brain to another
      • Less Serotonin = More aggressive
        • Mann et al -  gave 35 people dexfenfluramine whic decreases serotonin. Then used questionnaires to measure aggression and hostility. Found that the males became more aggressive.
          • X - Misleading questions X-  Small sample X- Demand Characteristics X- Reductionist
    • Hormone = Testosterone
      • This hormone is created more in men as it comes from the testes but also in women. has action on brain areas controlling aggression
      • More testosterone = More aggressive
        • Dabbs et al  - Measured testosterone in non violent and violent criminals. Found the highest levels were in those who commited violent crimes and lowest in those who commited non violent crimes.
          • Albert et al - found no correlation in some other studies so inconsistent. X- cause and effect, which causes which? X- Determinism - you WILL be that way
    • Other things need to be considered. Everyone produces testosterone and serotonin but not everyone is aggressive. SLT suggests behaviour is learnt. Needs to be more holistic.
    • Real world Application - If these findings are correct we can stop aggression. By reducing and increasing levels.
      • Leads to determinism.You can't help how you are. What about free will. Surely just a hormone cannot change what you know is right or wrong
  • Real world Application - If these findings are correct we can stop aggression. By reducing and increasing levels.
    • Leads to determinism.You can't help how you are. What about free will. Surely just a hormone cannot change what you know is right or wrong

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