Question

In what way might a behaviorist disagree with a cognitive psychologist about the cause of aggression? (A) A behaviorist might state that aggression is caused by memories or ways we think about aggressive behavior, while a cognitive psychologist might say aggression is caused by a past repressed experience. (B) A behaviorist might state that aggression is a behavior encouraged by our genetic code, while a cognitive psychologist might state that aggression is caused by memories or ways we think about aggressive behavior. (C) A behaviorist might state that aggression is caused by past rewards for aggressive behavior, while a cognitive psychologist might believe aggression is caused by an expressed desire to fulfill certain life needs. (D) A behaviorist might state that aggression is caused by past rewards for aggressive behavior, while a cognitive psychologist might believe aggression is caused by memories or ways we think about aggressive behavior. (E) A behaviorist would not disagree with a cognitive psychologist about aggression because they both believe that aggressive behavior is caused by the way we cognitively process certain behaviors.

Short answer

(D) A behaviorist might state that aggression is caused by past rewards for aggressive behavior, while a cognitive psychologist might believe aggression is caused by memories or ways we think about aggressive behavior.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze The provided options

Analyzing all the options provided and correlating them with the understanding of Behaviorist and Cognitive psychology.

Recognize the perspectives of behaviorism

Understanding that Behaviorist perspective says aggression is learnt or conditioned by external rewards or punishments. This means a behaviorist might state that aggression is caused by past rewards for aggressive behavior.

Recognize the perspectives of cognitive psychology

Grasping that a cognitive psychologist will usually say that aggression is a result of the way we think or our cognitive processes. This might include memories or interpreting aggressive behavior.

Match Correct Option

Matching our understanding of these theories to the options provided leads us to (D) A behaviorist might state that aggression is caused by past rewards for aggressive behavior, while a cognitive psychologist might believe aggression is caused by memories or ways we think about aggressive behavior.

Key concepts

Behaviorism in Psychology

Behaviorism is a foundational theory in psychology focusing on observable behaviors rather than internal mental processes. Behaviorists believe that all behaviors are learned through interactions with the environment. This perspective highlights the role of conditioning in behavior development.

Two main types of conditioning are central to behaviorism: classical and operant conditioning.

• Classical conditioning involves learning by association, where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a significant one, eliciting a conditioned response. An example is Pavlov’s dogs, who were conditioned to salivate at the sound of a bell after it was repeatedly paired with food.
• Operant conditioning focuses on reinforcement and punishment, where behaviors are influenced by the consequences that follow them. A behavior followed by a reward (positive reinforcement) is more likely to be repeated, whereas a behavior followed by a punishment is less likely to occur.

In the view of behaviorists, aggression can be understood as a behavior that has been reinforced by past experiences, such as receiving attention or compliance, which promotes the repetition of such behavior.

Cognitive Psychology

Cognitive psychology explores the internal processes that influence human behavior. It examines how we perceive, think, remember, and solve problems. Cognitive psychologists are interested in the mental processes that underlie behavior rather than just the behavior itself.

Key areas of focus include:

• Memory: How we store, retrieve, and use information.
• Thinking: The processes involved in recognizing patterns and solving problems.
• Perception: How we interpret sensory information from the environment.

When it comes to aggression, a cognitive psychologist might argue that it stems from how an individual interprets events or situations. For instance, they could believe that negative interpretations or memories related to aggression might influence someone to act aggressively. Thus, cognitive processes play a crucial role in understanding why individuals may display aggressive behavior.

Aggression Causes in Psychology

Aggression is a complex behavior that can be examined through different psychological lenses, including behaviorist and cognitive perspectives. An understanding of aggression involves exploring various potential causes and influences.

Some potential causes and influences on aggression include:

• Environmental Factors: Situations that might encourage aggression, such as competitive atmospheres or exposure to violent media.
• Biological Influences: Genetic predispositions or neurochemical imbalances that could predispose individuals to aggressive behavior.
• Psychological Factors: This includes both learned behaviors, as seen in behaviorism, and cognitive interpretations of experiences as viewed by cognitive psychologists.

Each perspective provides valuable insights, and understanding the cause of aggression often involves considering multiple factors and their interactions.

Behaviorist vs Cognitive Psychologist

Behaviorists and cognitive psychologists often have differing perspectives when it comes to understanding the causes of behaviors like aggression.

• Behaviorist View: Emphasizes observable behaviors and believes aggression is learned through reinforcement. For example, being rewarded for aggressive acts can cause an individual to repeat such behaviors.
• Cognitive Psychologist View: Focuses on the internal mental processes that influence behaviors. They might suggest that aggression results from certain cognitive processes, such as how an individual remembers or perceives aggression-related situations.

When comparing these two perspectives, it is crucial to acknowledge that behaviorists stick to external observable evidence while cognitive psychologists delve into the mental processes that drive behavior. Both approaches contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of aggression.