Describe and evaluate research into group displays of agression
by
alihussein96 (student)
Evolutionary Explanation- Group Display
“Group display” refers to displays of aggressive behaviour by groups, which are described as “three or more people gathered together for a common purpose”. By studying animals that display aggression, it is clear that this sort of display is an adaptive response that minimises actual physical contact and therefore the chances of physical injury or death. For example, the red deer stags on the Isle of Rhum conduct an innate group display, bellowing and comparing height. The information gained from this enables the stag to make an informed decision on whether it is likely to succeed in a fight. This minimises the chances of being injured or killed, and therefore maximises the stag’s breeding potential. Humans are said to display similar behaviour, an example being processions of martial might, as recently displayed by North Korea. These are aggressive displays used to exhibit military strength and armoury. These marches remind opponents of man power and machinery, as well as reassuring their own nation.
Group displays are commonplace at sporting occasions, as sport allows competition between males without incurring the risk of serious injury. Displays by the athletes themselves involve exhibitions of strength and skill, behaviours attractive to females, who will select winning males for reproductive success based on displays of genetic fitness. These displays can include “war dances”. These are rituals performed before and during battle by warriors, to intimidate the enemy and to motivate their own members. They are incorporated into sport for the same purpose. For example, the New Zealand Haka, performed by the national rugby team aims to intimidate the opposing team. Elements of war dances have also been incorporated into supporter displays, like wearing of club colours, face painting, or chanting. An example of this is Liverpool supporters singing “You’ll never walk alone”. Such displays are motivating and maintain group cohesion and identity.
