A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

Why is it noted that hitting a doll does not represent real-life aggression?

1. It does not involve real emotional responses

2. Dolls cannot be harmed

3. Real aggression involves physical harm

4. Children do not take doll play seriously

The correct answer is: It does not involve real emotional responses

The assertion that hitting a doll does not represent real-life aggression is best supported by the understanding that it does not involve real emotional responses. When children engage in play, especially with dolls, it serves as a form of symbolic expression rather than a reflection of their genuine feelings of anger or aggression. In this context, children's interactions with dolls often lack the intensity and genuine emotional investment that characterizes real-life aggressive behavior, which typically arises from authentic emotional states such as frustration or rage. This distinction is crucial in psychological studies examining aggression. Play with dolls is often exploratory and imaginative, allowing children to express scenarios rather than enacting real aggression. Therefore, the lack of genuine emotional response during such play is a key reason why hitting a doll does not equate to real-life aggression.