WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? A THEORETICAL EXPLORATION OF SELF-IDENTITY IN PREDISPOSITION TO AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOUR

Sammanfattning: Aggressive behaviour seems to be an extensive and severe problem negatively affecting both the victims and the offenders. Many factors affect aggression. In this study, one factor was examined: self-identity, in relation to societal strain and emotions. The study aims to explore the relations between self-identity (what do we think we are) societal strain and emotions with aggression. A theoretical exploration of the importance of self-identity in relation to aggressiveness and more specifically, explore the significance of additional concepts as a potential marker for the predisposition to aggressiveness. Also, verifying if these concepts are a stronger contributor than obstructor to aggressiveness. Evidence from interdisciplinary literature is used to answer the questions in this degree project. This thesis is based on a set of relevant scientific papers. Two theories, General Strain theory and Self-Control/bond theory, contrasted with the idea of self-identity. Findings - Self-identity influences the performance of an individual in everyday scenarios. Not being able to obtain a goal and improve our social status, can result in a higher probability of looking for illegal options. Further, there is a difference in the way emotions affect aggressive conduct and the way this conduct is expressed between genders. Finally, one's self-identity seems to be a relevant marker for the predisposition to aggressiveness. This thesis provides insights to some of the most important markers for the predisposition to aggressiveness in society.