Dispositions related to sensitivity in the neurological basis for activation of approach-avoidance motivation, antisocial attributes and individual differences in aggressive behavior

• Gunnar Bjørnebekk

  University of Oslo

During the last 30 years, social learning theory has been at the theoretical forefront of research on development of antisocial behavior. Only a few studies have focused on temperamental factors that underlie, determine, and maintain antisocial behavior. Some of these studies suggest that high approach-reward drive, weak fear-motivation and weak punishment-insensitivity constitute a critical mix of temperamental variables associated with aggressive and violent behavior in individuals with high impulsivity or low effortful or inhibitory control (e.g., Rothbart, Ahadi, & Evans, 2000). The present study examines hypotheses drawn from temperament-based theories derived from Gray’s model (1987, 1991). There were 42 participants; a target group of 21 adolescents who had a defined behavioral problem, and a matched referential group of 21 adolescents who did not. The results suggest that attributes related to primary psychopathy are rooted in low anxiety/low fear, and predict both instrumental and emotional aggression. Moreover, attributes related to secondary psychopathy seem rooted in temperamental approach and are positively associated with dysregulation of negative affect.

• PDF
  (USD 29)