Neural Influences

 It is unlikely that only one structure of the brain is solely responsible for aggression.  Anderson & Anderson (1998) found that both humans and animals several different parts of the brain have been identified to be involved in the production and control of aggressive behaviour.

 The Hypothalamus and the Amygdala are two structures located deep in the brain.  These are made up by neurons, which can be manipulated by electrodes to control normal functioning.

 Animals such as dogs and cats have been observed to be particularly aggressive towards animals that would usually produce a neutral response when the amygdala and the hypothalamus are activated by electrode's

 Researchers have been led to believe that the amygdala is the structure of the brain the contributes mainly to aggression.  The cerebral cortex is responsible for how we interpret someone else’s behaviour, for example a threatening gesture can be interpreted as either an aggressive act or a joke. Depending on who makes it, when and where.

Example  A normal peaceful woman who was suffering from a brain related disorder, had an electrode placed on her amygdala by the neurosurgeon. When the electrode activated the woman became aggressive and snarled “take my blood pressure. Take it now!” she then tried to hit the surgeon.