There are two theoretical frameworks common within the literature that effectively describe and support the two typologies of reactive and proactive aggression, these include the frustration-aggression model and social learning theory (Bandura, 1978; Berkowitz, 1989; Card & Little, 2006; Connor et al., 2004)
Frustration-aggression model. The frustration-aggression model postulates that aggression occurs as a result of frustration or anger to an event. This theory is reflective of reactive aggression as it views aggression as a hostile reaction to a perceived threat (Berkowitz, 1989). This type of aggression is a product of emotional affect and environmental cues. Therefore, it is suggested that while aggression is instigated by frustration,
Frustration-aggression model. The frustration-aggression model postulates that aggression occurs as a result of frustration or anger to an event. This theory is reflective of reactive aggression as it views aggression as a hostile reaction to a perceived threat (Berkowitz, 1989). This type of aggression is a product of emotional affect and environmental cues. Therefore, it is suggested that while aggression is instigated by frustration,