Aggression in Humans
Review of “social aggression” in rats:
- first appears at puberty
- it is distinguishable from other forms of aggression: 1) androgen-dependent, and 2) involves specific behavioral displays--piloerection and the use of lateral attack
- it is enhanced by a specific activation experience (e.g., sexual activity)
- it is directed largely at unfamiliar conspecifics
- it is primarily directed at other males
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Aggressive behavior of humans is quite different from the “social aggression” studied in rats (Table 2).
- aggression does not increase in all boys as they go through puberty
- administration of testosterone to hypogonadal men to treat sexual dysfunction does not routinely increase aggressive behavior