Evaluate brain structure as an explanation for aggressive behaviour

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Describe the theory briefly
In terms of brain structure, the amygdala, hypothalamus and the pre-frontal cortex are all associated with aggression. Assymetrical activity in the limbic system usually indicates higher levels of aggressions within a person.
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Describe the supporting evidence
Raine et al is supporting evidence as PET scans were used to see if there was a difference in brain activity between NGRI murderers and non-murderers. They found that there was asymmetrical activity in the right of the limbic system.
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Evaluate the supporting evidence
This is a strength because it shows higher activity in the limbic system which leads to more aggressive behaviour. This provides the theory with credibility because it shows that abnormal brain structures may lead to different levels in aggression.
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Describe the opposing evidence
The Raine et al study was conducted at the University of California in a lab environment.
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Evaluate the opposing evidence
This is a weakness because in a lab environment, participants are more susceptible to demand characteristics, which would have affected their behaviour. So it takes credibility away from the theory because the supporting evidence lacks validity.
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Describe the different theory
The likelihood of a target acting aggressive is determined through the sources strength (their status in comparison to the targets), their immediacy (how close they are to the target) and number (how many sources are there compared to the target).
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Evaluate the different theory
This is a weakness because it provides a different explanation of aggression without the need to use brain structure as an explanation, it is supported by evidence so gives credibility to the social explanation rather than brain structure.
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Describe the application
Can be used in court to determine whether someone is NGRI or not
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Evaluate the application
This is a strength because it can prohibit a murderer for getting a lighter sentence or on the other hand can treat someone (NGRI) and to decrease the chances of re-offending.
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Card 2

Front

Describe the supporting evidence

Back

Raine et al is supporting evidence as PET scans were used to see if there was a difference in brain activity between NGRI murderers and non-murderers. They found that there was asymmetrical activity in the right of the limbic system.

Card 3

Front

Evaluate the supporting evidence

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

Describe the opposing evidence

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

Evaluate the opposing evidence

Back

Preview of the front of card 5
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