The Social Psychology of Aggression (Social Psychology: A Modular Course)

This book provides an up-to-date overview of social-psychological research in the field of aggression. It presents a balanced account of both theoretical and applied issues and explores strategies designed to control, reduce and prevent aggression on both an individual and a societal level.

The book follows the broad division of basic and applied research in the area. First, it deals with the theoretical approaches that have been taken to conceptualise, explain, measure and predict the occurrence of aggression as a particular form of social behaviour. Issues discussed include individual differences in aggressive behaviour, the role of situational factors such as alcohol in eliciting aggression and the impact of media violence on viewers' aggressive response tendencies. Second, it addresses the manifestations of aggression in different areas of life, and the concerns of applied psychologists and practitioners regarding the damaging effects of aggression on individuals, groups and societies. Included are chapters on aggression in the public sphere, domestic violence, and sexual aggression. Topics such as bullying, gang violence, ethnic violence, and violence in the family are also covered.

The Social Psychology of Aggression will be of interest to students and researchers in psychology, sociology, law, media studies, and social work. It will also be useful to practitioners and policy makers working in areas such as domestic violence, sexual aggression, childhood and adolescent aggression, bullying and gang violence.

Barbara Krahé is Professor of Social Psychology at the University of Potsdam, Germany. Her main research interests are in the area of applied social psychology, focusing on sexual aggression, decision making about sexual assault, and the impact of media violence on aggression. She is an active member of the International Society for Research on Aggression (ISRA).