Pat recently fell over and hit his head on a hard surface - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 8 - 2020 - Paper 2

Brain injuries can significantly affect behavior and personality, leading to increased aggression. This is particularly relevant in Pat's case, given his recent injury from falling and hitting his head.

Understanding Brain Injury

A brain injury can alter brain function, particularly in areas that regulate emotions and impulse control. Damage to the frontal lobes, for instance, can result in disinhibition, leading to impulsive or aggressive actions.

Contextual Factors Affecting Aggression

Pat's situation involves numerous contextual factors:

• Change in Behavior: After his injury, Pat exhibits aggressive behaviors that were not previously noted, such as shouting at family members and throwing objects. This sudden change may correlate directly with the injury, suggesting that the brain's ability to regulate emotional responses has been compromised.
• Social Relationships: His friends are distancing themselves from him, indicating that his aggressive behavior is negatively impacting social interactions. This aspect highlights the injury's effect beyond just individual behavior, affecting social ties and relationships.
• Cumulative Impact of Stress: Additionally, if Pat is facing stress from other areas of his life, this could compound any effects of the brain injury, further intensifying aggression. The fight he was involved in may be a reflection of how stress and brain function can interact to influence behavior.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pat's brain injury likely plays a substantial role in his aggressive behavior. While not the sole reason for his actions, it certainly contributes to his inability to control temper and aggression effectively, given the documented effects of such injuries on behavior and emotional regulation.