Outline one or more social psychological explanation of aggression

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Outline one or more social psychological explanation of aggression

Deindividuation is a concept in social psychology regarding the loosening of social norms in groups. Theories of deindividuation propose that it is a psychological state of decreased self-evaluation causing antinormative and disinhibited behaviour. The deindividuation theory seeks to provide an explanation for a variety of antinormative collective behaviour, such as violent crowds, lynch mobs, etc.

Deindividuation refers to a diminishing of one’s sense of individuality that occurs with behaviour disjointed from personal or social standards of conduct. For example, someone who is an anonymous member of a mob will be more likely to act violently toward a police officer than a known individual. In one sense, a deindividuated state may be considered appealing if someone is affected such that he or she feels free to behave impulsively without mind to potential consequences. However, deindividuation has also been linked to “violent and antisocial behaviour.”

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An example of deindividuation in recent event can be the recent riots, people may have been more prone to riot and loot while hiding their identity if people did not have the means to remain anonymous then they may have been less prone to riot.

The psychologist Zimbardo has carried out experiments on deindividuation and the effect of it, in one study, participants in the experimental condition were made to be anonymous by being issued large coats and hoods which largely concealed their identity. Then other participants were dressed up like Ku Klux Klan members. However, the participants ...

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Summary The writer has clearly included some of the major studies to explain deindividuation. However, the score could be improved if the writer followed a clear plan which included an introduction, the main piece of writing and a conclusion. The introduction should start with a clear definition of the term 'aggression' and all the writing and studies should relate to this. The writer also needs to make it clear that 'deindividuation' is the social theory being discussed. The writer should use their own words throughout the essay to avoid being accused of plagiarism. Score 3