Frustration-Aggression Principle

Definition

The frustration-aggression principle suggests that frustration - the blocking of an attempt to achieve some goal - creates anger which can generate aggression.

Related terms

Catharsis Hypothesis: This theory proposes that releasing aggressive energy relieves aggressive urges. In our analogy, honking your horn might be seen as cathartic release.

Displacement:

This is shifting aggressive impulses toward a less threatening object or person. Like yelling at your steering wheel instead of other drivers during traffic congestion.

Instrumental Aggression:

This type of aggression is aimed at hurting someone else to gain something—like aggressively cutting off another driver just so you can move one car length ahead.