Aggression used to obtain or retain a toy or other object is called: bullying. instrumental aggression. personal aggression. reactive aggression.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: instrumental aggression.
Explanation
Instrumental aggression refers to aggressive behavior that is used as a means to achieve a specific goal. It is not driven by a desire to cause harm for its own sake but rather as a way to gain something desirable—such as a toy, social status, or another object of value. In the context of the question, when a child uses aggression to obtain or retain a toy, the aggression is purposeful and goal-directed, which characterizes instrumental aggression.
This type of aggression is common in early childhood development. For example, a toddler might push another child to take a toy they want to play with. The pushing is not meant to hurt the other child personally but to achieve the objective of gaining possession of the toy. Instrumental aggression is distinct from hostile or reactive aggression, where the primary goal is to cause harm in response to a perceived threat or provocation.
Instrumental aggression often decreases as children develop better social and communication skills. They learn alternative, more socially acceptable ways to achieve their goals, such as negotiating or sharing. However, if left unchecked, it may persist and evolve into more manipulative or coercive forms of behavior in later years.
The other options are incorrect:
- Bullying involves repeated aggressive behavior intended to harm or intimidate someone perceived as vulnerable.
- Personal aggression is not a widely recognized psychological term; it’s too vague to apply precisely.
- Reactive aggression occurs in response to a perceived threat or provocation, and is more emotionally driven, unlike the goal-oriented nature of instrumental aggression.
In conclusion, aggression aimed at obtaining or keeping a toy or object fits the definition of instrumental aggression because the behavior is a strategic means to a desired end.
