Dispositions related to sensitivity in the neurological basis for activation of approach-avoidance motivation, antisocial attributes and individual differences in aggressive behavior

During the last 30 years, social learning theory has been at the theoretical forefront of research on development of antisocial behavior. Only a few studies have focused on temperamental factors that underlie, determine, and maintain antisocial behavior. Some of these studies suggest that high approach-reward drive, weak fear-motivation and weak punishment-insensitivity constitute a critical mix of temperamental variables associated with aggressive and violent behavior in individuals with high impulsivity or low effortful or inhibitory control (e.g., Rothbart, Ahadi, & Evans, 2000). The present study examines hypotheses drawn from temperament-based theories derived from Gray’s model (1987, 1991). There were 42 participants; a target group of 21 adolescents who had a defined behavioral problem, and a matched referential group of 21 adolescents who did not. The results suggest that attributes related to primary psychopathy are rooted in low anxiety/low fear, and predict both instrumental and emotional aggression. Moreover, attributes related to secondary psychopathy seem rooted in temperamental approach and are positively associated with dysregulation of negative affect.