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Updated: May 6, 2026

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The Resident-intruder Paradigm: A Standardized Test for Aggression, Violence and Social Stress
Published on: July 4, 2013
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[Aggressive behavior: theoretical and biological aspects]
1Psychiatric Department, 414 Athens Army Hospital, Athens, Greece.
Psychiatrike = Psychiatriki
|November 9, 2013
Summary
Aggression susceptibility varies by psychological context, including psychopathy, psychosis, and dementia. Neurobiological factors like amygdala reactivity and prefrontal regulation, along with neurotransmitter imbalances, influence aggressive behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Context:
- Aggression manifests differently across psychological contexts, including psychopathy, psychosis, dementia, and borderline personality disorder.
- Substance abuse is a common comorbidity, contributing to cognitive distortions and disinhibition.
- Neurobiological underpinnings involve limbic-mediated affective responses insufficiently constrained by prefrontal inhibition.
Purpose:
- To explore the psychological and neurobiological factors influencing aggression.
- To examine the role of specific neurotransmitter systems and receptor interactions in aggression.
- To review the potential of pharmacological interventions in managing aggressive behavior.
Summary:
- Aggression is influenced by psychological states (psychopathy, psychosis) and neurobiology (amygdala, prefrontal cortex).
- Neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly serotonin and GABA, are implicated in aggression.
- Pharmacological agents like fluoxetine, atypical antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers show potential in reducing aggression.
Impact:
- Understanding these factors can inform targeted interventions for individuals with aggression.
- Highlights the complex interplay between psychological conditions, neurobiology, and aggressive behavior.
- Provides insights into the mechanisms of action for antiaggressive medications.
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