164k views
2 votes
Which of the following explanations of aggression aligns best with evolutionary psychology?

A) Aggression is primarily learned through environmental influences.
B) Aggression is an innate and instinctive behavior necessary for survival and reproduction.
C) Aggression is a result of unresolved childhood conflicts and trauma.
D) Aggression is a learned response to social and cultural factors.

User Spatak
by
7.9k points

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

The explanation of aggression that is most aligned with evolutionary psychology suggests it is an innate behavior aimed at survival and reproduction, with aggression in males often serving to display dominance and protect paternity, whereas women may exhibit more indirect forms of aggressive behavior.

Step-by-step explanation:

The explanation of aggression that aligns best with evolutionary psychology is that aggression is an innate and instinctive behavior necessary for survival and reproduction. This viewpoint is supported by research suggesting that humans, as well as nonhuman primates, display aggression as a way to display dominance, protect mates, and ensure the continuation of their genes. Sexual jealousy and the protection of paternity are parts for male aggression, whereas women may display aggression in more indirect forms. Despite the role of learning and cultural influences in shaping the expression of aggression, evolutionary psychologists consider aggression to have a significant genetic component, reflecting evolutionary pressures and natural selection.

Overall, while the environment undeniably shapes the ways in which aggression is manifested and what is perceived as a threat, evolutionary psychology emphasizes the innate tendencies and genetic underpinnings that contribute to aggressive behavior. Cultural factors modify the expression of these behaviors, but do not negate the underlying evolutionary context from which they arise.

User YoonHo
by
8.0k points