How does instinct theory link aggression to survival?

Aggression evolved to help humans defend themselves, their territory and their offspring. Sport is seen as a modern outlet for this ancient drive.

Catharsis is the release of pent-up aggressive energy. Instinct theory claims sport provides a safe, acceptable outlet for that release.

How does instinct theory explain aggression in a contact sport?

A performer's built-up aggressive drive is released through tackles and physical contests. The theory predicts that aggression will occur whatever the situation.

Give two criticisms of instinct theory.

Aggression is rarely spontaneous, because it usually follows a trigger such as provocation. Some people and cultures show very little aggression, which an innate drive cannot explain.

OCR A-Level Physical Education H555

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Aggression

Instinct and social learning theories of aggression

3 things to know
Component 02

Overview

Instinct theory, Freud and Lorenz, survival and catharsis, its criticisms, social learning theory and Bandura's Bobo doll study, vicarious reinforcement and club culture, and reducing aggression through role models.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Evaluation

What are the criticisms of instinct theory and of the idea of catharsis?

Key term

What does instinct theory say about aggression?

Key term

Which theorists are most associated with instinct theory?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1
What does instinct theory say about aggression?
Model answer
Instinct theory says aggression is innate, an inherited drive present in everyone. Aggressive energy builds up naturally and must be released.
2
Which theorists are most associated with instinct theory?
Model answer
Konrad Lorenz and Sigmund Freud are the theorists most associated with instinct theory. Lorenz argued that aggression is an evolved instinct for survival.
3
How does instinct theory link aggression to survival?
Model answer
Aggression evolved to help humans defend themselves, their territory and their offspring. Sport is seen as a modern outlet for this ancient drive.
4
What is catharsis?
Model answer
Catharsis is the release of pent-up aggressive energy. Instinct theory claims sport provides a safe, acceptable outlet for that release.
5
How does instinct theory explain aggression in a contact sport?
Model answer
A performer's built-up aggressive drive is released through tackles and physical contests. The theory predicts that aggression will occur whatever the situation.
6
Give two criticisms of instinct theory.
Model answer
Aggression is rarely spontaneous, because it usually follows a trigger such as provocation. Some people and cultures show very little aggression, which an innate drive cannot explain.

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ADoping can damage health and add to healthcare costs.

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Instinct and social learning theories of aggression

Overview

What you need to know

What are the criticisms of instinct theory and of the idea of catharsis?

What does instinct theory say about aggression?

Which theorists are most associated with instinct theory?

Questions from this subtopic

What does instinct theory say about aggression?

Which theorists are most associated with instinct theory?

How does instinct theory link aggression to survival?

What is catharsis?

How does instinct theory explain aggression in a contact sport?

Give two criticisms of instinct theory.

Other ways to work this

What is inside Levo

The 3-step method, run for you

Cram a whole paper in one sitting

Blank Blitz makes facts automatic

Build It gets the exam shape right

Test It catches misconceptions

Brain Breaks between sessions

Every question in Aggression, on a schedule.