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Content Summary
Social Psychology Article
Christopher Theriault
Department of Psychology, Liberty University
PSY 512: Social Psychology
Dr. Snyder
October 03, 2025
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Content Summary
Introduction
Aggression can take many different forms and is often learned rather than purely innate.
One explanation is found in social learning theory, which suggests that people model behaviors
they observe in others, especially authority figures, role models, and parents. Through this
process, aggression can be reinforced and carried forward, shaping how individuals respond to
situations and interact with others.
Aggression
There are different types of aggression. Aggression itself can be defined as behavior that
is intended to harm someone (Kassin et al., 2025). One form is proactive aggression, also called
instrumental aggression, which involves using aggression as a means to achieve a goal (Chadee,
2022). Research has shown that negative parenting plays a role in the development of this type
of aggression. For instance, children who experience abuse or neglect are more likely to become
bully/victims, displaying aggression both as perpetrators and targets (Lereya et al., 2013). This
pattern can continue into adolescence and adulthood, shaping how they interact with others.
Social Learning theory
Behavior is often learned from observing other people. According to social learning
theory, individuals acquire behaviors through observation and imitation (Chadee, 2022). These
models can encourage either helpful behavior or aggressive behavior. Learning can also occur
through direct experience with rewards and punishments (Kassin et al., 2025). For example,
positive parenting can foster healthier social interactions and reduce negative outcomes.
Research shows that the effect size of bully/victims is significantly smaller under positive
parenting compared to negative parenting (Lereya et al., 2013). When children observe positive
relationships, they are more likely to develop and maintain positivity in their own interactions.
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Bullying
Bullying occurs across the world and is present in virtually all cultures. It is defined as
intentional harm that is repeated and involves an imbalance of power (Kassin et al., 2025). The
causes of bullying can depend on several factors. Differences in social standing, power, and
expression can contribute to its development (Chadee, 2022). Bullying can also be learned
through negative parenting, where children observe aggression in their parents, combined with
genetic influences that may increase aggressiveness (Lereya et al., 2013). While aggression often
leads to negative outcomes, education, empathy, and stronger reasoning skills can reduce it to
more acceptable behaviors in society. For instance, new parents with a history of negative
experiences may benefit from parenting classes to avoid raising aggressive bully/victims.
Conclusion
Aggression and bullying are not the answer. Scripture reminds us of the importance of
patience and forgiveness: “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have
against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (New International Version Bible,
1978/2011, Colossians 3:13). Rather than responding with aggression, people should learn to
practice forgiveness, let go of anger, and move forward in peace.
References
Chadee, D. (2022). Theories in social psychology. John Wiley & Sons.
Kassin, S. M., Fein, S., & Markus, H. R. (2025). Social psychology. SAGE.
Lereya, S. T., Samara, M., & Wolke, D. (2013). Parenting behavior and the risk of becoming a
victim and a bully/victim: A Meta-analysis study. Child Abuse & Neglect, 37(12),
1091–1108. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2013.03.001
The Holy Bible, New International Bible (2011). Zondervan. (Original work published 1978)
