A quasi-experimental study in sibling dyads: differential provocation-aggression patterns in the interactive taylor aggression paradigm

• DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1288743
• Publication Date: 2024-02-08T04:49:55Z
• Authors: Julia Koch; Lucia Hernandez-Pena; Charlotte Keeler; Edward S. Brodkin; Ute Habel; Rik Sijben; Lisa Wagels
• Keywords: Situational ethics

Introduction The Taylor Aggression Paradigm (TAP) is a well-established tool for assessing provocation-induced reactive aggression. We introduce an interactive version, the iTAP, with real-time opponents across 60 trials, including five simulated provocation trials in middle. In this quasi-experimental study, we evaluate effectiveness of paradigm to investigate aggression interacting participants. design allows us employ TAP settings high familiarity dyads, addressing existing gap. Method Twenty-eight healthy same-sex adult sibling pairs ( N = 56) competed against each other exemplifying through their social and emotional co-development, mutual knowledge. Additionally, explore naturally arising types terms pairs’ reciprocal trajectories trials. Lastly, situational personal variables influencing on iTAP within dyads. Results line non-interactive versions, siblings employed global “tit-for-tat” strategy response heightened provocation: increased during manipulated increasing provocation, persisted real interaction declined final block, suggesting co-regulation which was underscored by convergence within-pair level. found no gender differences these dynamics but trend higher initial levels brother responsiveness sister pairs. Overall were related trial outcome (lost, won, tie), Further, siblings’ state anger correlated positively scores iTAP. not reliably predicting identified subgroups distinct provocation-aggression patterns reported behavioral motivations states. results highlight over determining aggressive behavior task sample adults. While direct link between relationship quality found, overall likely influenced specific context relationship. Conclusion demonstrates promise as studying behavior. emergence different underscores ecological validity introduced context, complements standard versions TAP.