The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast 171. Aggressive By Nature? | Richard Tremblay
May 27, 2021
In this discussion, Richard Tremblay, a renowned Canadian child psychologist and professor, dives into the complexities of childhood aggression. He uncovers the surprising biological roots of aggressive behavior and the significant societal impacts if left unchecked. Tremblay emphasizes the necessity of early interventions, exploring how maternal care influences aggression's development. He also highlights the need for targeted support programs that can alter the trajectory of at-risk youth, ultimately reducing future crime rates.
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Defining Physical Aggression
- Physical aggression is often conflated with other externalizing behaviors.
- Studying physical aggression specifically in young children offers a clearer picture due to their limited sophistication.
Developmental Trajectory of Aggression
- Contrary to popular belief, physical aggression peaks in early childhood, around age 2-3, not adolescence.
- Children learn to inhibit physical aggression over time, not the other way around.
Three Developmental Pathways
- Approximately 30% of children rarely show aggression, 50% use it occasionally in childhood, and 17% remain highly aggressive.
- Aggressive adolescents often come from the group of exceptionally aggressive children.