ABSTRACT
Chapter 12 discusses strategies aimed at controlling and preventing aggressive behaviour. Compared to the extensive knowledge based on causes of aggression, the evidence about effective ways of controlling and preventing aggression is slim, and the demand for strategies based on sound theoretical models and empirical evidence remains high. The chapter begins by looking at general strategies that are potentially applicable to many forms of aggressive behaviour, for example observational learning or punishment. These include societal-level interventions, such as the deterrent function of capital punishment and the potential effectiveness of tighter gun-control legislation. These are complemented by measures targeting the individual aggressors in an attempt to change their emotions, cognitions, and behaviour, for example through promoting more adaptive anger management. This review is followed by an examination of measures custom-tailored to deal with specific forms of aggression, such as gang violence, domestic violence, and sexual aggression. Again these approaches are located at the societal, interpersonal, and individual level. In the final section, it is argued that aggression is a “wicked problem” that needs “wise interventions”.
