Psychodynamic and frustration-aggression theories differ only in frustration’s source

Evidence

In sum, the major difference between the psychodynamic and frustration– aggression theories of scapegoating is whether frustration is due to internal psychodynamic conflict or to external sources that block goal-directed behavior. Otherwise, both views suggest that: (a) aggression against the true source of frustration is inhibited, (b) aggression is displaced toward others who are weak and therefore unable to retaliate, and (c) negative stereotypes of scapegoated groups are mere projections or rationalizations that obscure the real reasons for hostility toward them. Overall, both accounts view scapegoating as irrational – an infantile, maladaptive, and emotionally driven response to (either internal or external) frustration. — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1566