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Stimulus control : a coding of aversive stimuli and aggressive behavior

Author

John L. Kinch, University of the Pacific

Date of Award

1986

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Department

Graduate School

First Advisor

Martin T. Gipson

First Committee Member

Esther Cohen

Second Committee Member

Roger C. Katz

Abstract

Treating aggressive behavior has been of interest to psychologists, sociologists, and law enforcement agencies for many years. Eron (1983) concluded that research should be directed towards understanding the early determinants of aggression before it escalates out of control. The purpose of the present study was to code aversive stimuli that precede aggressive behavior in boys. The following classes were used: Physically Aversive Stimuli, Verbally Aversive Stimuli, Socially Aversive Stimuli, Frustrating Stimuli, Neutral or No Stimuli, and Arguments. It was believed that particular stimuli would facilitate a greater frequency of aggressive behavior in the subjects. Observation revealed that physically aversive stimuli preceded twice the amount of aggression than all other stimuli. Verbally aversive stimuli preceded less aggression; however, the aggressive responses that did occur were more verbal than physical. Frustrating stimuli were not recorded during the study.

Pages

85

Recommended Citation

Kinch, John L.. (1986). Stimulus control : a coding of aversive stimuli and aggressive behavior. University of the Pacific, Thesis. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/2118