Shock-Setting Behavior as a Function of Physical Attack and Extrinsic Reward

Abstract

This experiment investigated the relative aggressiveness (shock-setting behavior) of Ss competing against aggressive and nonaggressive opponents under conditions in which they could either receive or not receive extrinsic rewards (money) for behaving aggressively. It was observed that Ss behaved in a more aggressive manner when competing with aggressive opponents than when competing with nonaggressive opponents. Ss also selected significantly more intense shocks when given the opportunity to receive monetary rewards for doing so than when not given this opportunity. Aggressive behavior was an additive function of aggressive provocation and extrinsic reward.