Produce a poster using PowerPoint that critically evaluates the statement, “An individual’s tendency to demonstrate aggressive behaviour is entirely innate.”
Your arguments must be supported by scientific research and citations.
You can present the slides either landscape (120cm width x 80cm height) or portrait (80cm width x 120cm height)
On the poster slide, you should split up the information into distinct sections and use text, bullet-points, diagrams, tables and pictures to present the content where appropriate.
- In the first section, you should introduce the topic of aggression.
- In the next section, you should provide a critical evaluation of the statement, “An individual’s tendency to demonstrate aggressive behaviour is entirely innate.” Your evaluation should include arguments both for and against the statement, supported by scientific research articles from peer reviewed journals with accompanying citations. These key research articles should be explored in depth (i.e. providing a summary of their aims, methods, findings and conclusions). Make sure to incorporate contemporary issues/ topics.
- In the final section, you should present a logical conclusion based upon the arguments made both for and
against the statement.
Poster Evaluation: The Nature of Aggressive Behavior
Introduction: Understanding Aggression
- Aggression is a complex behavior influenced by various factors.
- It can be defined as any behavior intended to cause harm to others.
- Research suggests that aggression is a product of a combination of genetic, environmental, and situational factors.
Critical Evaluation of Aggressive Behavior Innateness
For the Statement:
- Genetic Predisposition: Studies like the one by Caspi et al. (2002) suggest a genetic component in aggressive behavior.
- Neurobiological Factors: Research by Blair (2016) shows brain abnormalities in individuals displaying aggression.
- Evolutionary Perspective: Buss (2017) argues that aggression may have evolved as a survival mechanism.
Against the Statement:
- Social Learning Theory: Bandura's research (1977) highlights the role of observational learning in aggressive behavior.
- Environmental Influences: Dodge and Pettit (2003) emphasize the impact of family dynamics and socialization on aggression.
- Psychological Trauma: Studies like Felitti et al. (1998) link childhood trauma to later aggressive tendencies.
Conclusion: The Interplay of Nature and Nurture
- Aggressive behavior is not solely innate but a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and situational factors.
- Understanding these multifaceted influences is crucial in addressing and managing aggression effectively.
By examining various research findings, it becomes evident that while genetics and biology play a role in aggressive behavior, environmental and social factors also significantly contribute to an individual's propensity for aggression. It is this intricate interplay between nature and nurture that shapes human behavior, including the display of aggression.