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Frustration-aggression hypothesis: examination and reformulation.

L Berkowitz

    Psychological Bulletin
    |July 1, 1989
    PubMed
    Summary
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    The frustration-aggression hypothesis suggests that blocking desired goals can incite aggression. Revised models indicate that negative emotions aroused by frustration, not just goal blockage, drive aggressive feelings.

    Area of Science:

    • Psychology
    • Social Psychology
    • Behavioral Science

    Background:

    • The original Dollard et al. (1939) frustration-aggression hypothesis posits that frustration directly leads to aggression.
    • This hypothesis has faced mixed empirical support, with some studies contradicting its core tenets.
    • The role of subjective interpretation and attribution in moderating the frustration-aggression link requires further examination.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To critically examine the Dollard et al. (1939) frustration-aggression hypothesis.
    • To explore the conditions under which frustration elicits aggressive inclinations.
    • To review evidence supporting revised models, including Berkowitz's cognitive-neoassociationistic theory.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of existing empirical studies on the frustration-aggression hypothesis.

    Related Experiment Videos

  • Analysis of the original formulation and its limitations.
  • Examination of evidence concerning the impact of aversive events and negative affect.

    • Main Results:

    • While some studies support the original hypothesis, others show negative results, indicating its limitations.
    • Frustration can induce aggressive inclinations even without personal targeting or arbitrary intent.
    • Interpretations and attributions influence the perceived unpleasantness of thwarting and subsequent aggression.

    Conclusions:

    • A revised model suggests that frustration leads to aggression to the extent that it evokes negative affect.
    • Berkowitz's cognitive-neoassociationistic model provides a framework for understanding the role of negative affect.
    • The link between frustration, negative affect, and aggression is complex and influenced by cognitive factors.