Abstract

CENTURION-CABRAL, João Carlos et al. From Optimism to Aggression: Positive Cognitions Predict Violent Behavior in Men. Av. Psicol. Latinoam. [online]. 2020, vol.38, n.1, pp.203-217.  Epub Feb 19, 2021. ISSN 1794-4724.  https://doi.org/10.12804/revistas.urosario.edu.co/apl/a.6853.

People often have overly confident expectations about themselves and the future. Negative emotions and cognitions have direct effects on aggression; however, few studies have considered the relevance of positive cognitions, such as self-confidence and optimism. In this study, we sought to evaluate whether optimism bias, positive self-perception, and self-confidence predict aggression in men. We also tested whether testosterone and cortisol mediate the relationship between positive cognitions and aggression. Our results indicate that optimism bias and self-confidence are significant predictors of aggression. Although steroid hormones predicted the occurrence of positive cognitions, no hormonal measures mediated the relationship between aggression and optimism or self-confidence. Therefore, positive cognitions, mainly optimism bias, can play a role in male aggression, possibly by reducing impulse control, which increases risk-taking behaviors.

Keywords : Aggressive behavior; unrealistic optimism; self-confidence; testosterone; cortisol.

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