Final answer:
Hostile aggression is driven by anger with intent to cause pain, whereas instrumental aggression is goal-oriented and may not intend to cause pain. Hostile aggression is arguably more concerning due to its unpredictable and emotional nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
Difference Between Hostile and Instrumental Aggression
Hostile aggression and instrumental aggression are both forms of behavior intended to cause harm or pain, but they differ in their underlying motivations and outcomes. Hostile aggression is motivated by feelings of anger with the intent to cause pain, whereas instrumental aggression is primarily motivated by achieving a goal and does not necessarily involve intent to cause pain. An example of hostile aggression could be a heated argument that escalates into a physical fight, often fueled by intense emotions such as anger or hate. On the other hand, instrumental aggression could be exemplified by a boxer in a match or a businessperson undercutting competition to gain market share, where the primary focus is on achieving a particular objective with less emphasis on causing pain.
Which is the Bigger Cause for Concern?
Both forms of aggression can be concerning, but hostile aggression may present a more immediate threat to individuals and society due to its emotional nature and potential for escalation. It tends to have more unpredictable outcomes and can lead to long-term psychological effects and social strain, which may contribute to conditions such as cardiovascular diseases. Instrumental aggression, while concerning, often involves calculated actions and is less likely to spiral out of control emotionally, though it can still lead to significant harm depending on the context.