Biological Bases of Aggression

Definition

This refers to the concept that biological factors such as genes, hormones, and parts of the brain contribute to aggressive behavior.

Analogy

Think of aggression like a car engine. Just as different parts of an engine work together to make the car move, different biological factors work together to influence aggression. If one part is faulty or overactive (like a gene mutation or hormone imbalance), it can cause the whole system (or behavior) to go awry.

Related terms

Neurotransmitters: These are chemical messengers in the brain that transmit signals from one neuron to another. Certain neurotransmitters like serotonin have been linked with aggressive behavior when their levels in the brain are imbalanced.

Hormones: These are chemicals produced by glands in our body that regulate bodily functions and behaviors. For example, high levels of testosterone have been associated with increased aggression.

Amygdala: This is a part of the brain involved in emotion regulation, particularly fear and aggression. When stimulated, it can trigger aggressive responses.