Temperature and Aggression

Abstract

This chapter addresses the theoretical, empirical, and practical issues surrounding the temperature–aggression hypothesis. A brief history of the temperature–aggression hypothesis and paradox involving violence and lethargy is described in the chapter. It outlines the major issues and theories surrounding heat effects and provides an integrated model of aggression. In correlation studies of the temperature–aggression hypothesis, there may be complexities that artificially give rise to strong heat effects. The existential question in the chapter refers to whether there is a true direct causal effect of hot temperatures on aggression. Negative affect escape theory focuses on the current state of the individual and their behavioral motives. Two theories that focus on the influence of environmental factors on aggressive cognitions and behaviors are Bandura's groundbreaking social learning theory (SLT) and Berkowitz's contemporary cognitive neoassociation theory (CNT) of emotion. The temperature–aggression hypothesis refers to the theoretical statement that uncomfortable temperatures cause increases in aggressive motivation and (under the right conditions) in aggressive behavior. The General Affective Aggression model theory states that heat effects are both direct and indirect.