psy301 week 4

1^st assignment

Examine the concept of altruism and altruistic behavior. What does it mean for someone to behave altruistically? What is gained from this action, and how does it differ from egoistic behavior? What are some reasons why people would want to help one another, without regard for personal gain or benefit?  In addition, explain the bystander effect.  If we all have a genuine desire to help one another, why is the effect so common?  How can we prevent it from occurring?

2^nd assignment

Although we label some behaviors as aggressive, we also neglect a multitude of other actions that qualify as aggressive behaviors. As mentioned in your textbook, what matters is the intent of the action, not necessarily the action itself.

Describe the various origins of aggressive behavior, and discuss the gender differences in how aggression is developed and presented. Additionally, describe the aggression cues that we encounter in our social world through the media, the presence of weapons, alcohol and drug consumption, the environment, etc. How do these cues influence our capacity to behave in an aggressive manner?