You do not currently have permission to view the full text for this document. Please sign in to an account with an active subscription or contact support.
Lawson Lowrey introduces the discussion by mentioning two opposing concepts of aggression: one considers its destructive aspect, the other regards it as an expression of impulses to self-assertion and mastery. He quotes the opinions of Menninger, Schilder and Alexander, and refers to the reciprocal relationship between hostile aggression and anxiety. He summarizes by pointing out that theories about aggression vary, that aggression may be diverted to constructive ends, that early affectional relationships play a crucial rôle in development and form of hostile behavior, that frustration is a common causative factor, that the term 'aggression' refers to motor activity, while 'hostility' refers to an emotional tension, and finally, that the redirection of aggressive urges lessens anxiety and hostility.
Gregory Zilboorg points out that aggression is a normal biological phenomenon which insures survival by supplying energy for self-preservative acts and for the mastery of nature. Individuals and groups, however, must direct their aggression outwardly, for in-turned aggression results in personal suicide or disruption of the group. Social living requires that aggression be dammed up and released only in such forms as war, racial prejudice, politics, and the mastery of man by man. 'That culture, which in times of peace allows the individual the maximum social outlet for aggression, will serve as the best prophylactic measure as far as individual mental illness is concerned, and at the same time serve as the best preventive agency as far as wars and revolutions are concerned.'
Lauretta Bender next discusses aggression in childhood. She does not