Question

Define aggression. Give an example of an act that harms another but is not aggressive by definition. Explain your answer.

Answer 1

Aggression - a hostile or "stand-offish" behavior towards another being. (i.e. dogs often bare their teeth and growl to show hostility/aggression)

Keep in mind that any intentional act of violence can be seen as aggressive. Accidents such as a car unintentionally hitting an unknowing pedestrian are not aggressive. The pedestrian is being harmed, but the driver of the car did not run them over with the intent to harm. A dog baring his teeth at an intruder before attacking is an aggressive act because the dog intends to harm the intruder.

Answer 2

Aggression is hostile or violent behavior or attitudes towards another. An example of an act that is not violent or aggressive in nature but still can cause harm is lying. Even if it’s just spreading a rumor in a non-violent or hostile way, a person could, for example- loose their job because of it.