Which of the following best describes the relationship between poverty and aggression according to research?

• A. Aggression is highly correlated with poverty
• B. Aggression is inversely correlated with poverty
• C. No relation
• D. Poverty reduces aggression

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that research finds a positive relationship between poverty and aggression. Across psychology, sociology, and criminology, poverty is consistently associated with higher levels of aggressive behavior and violent outcomes. This pattern arises because economic hardship brings chronic stress, insecurity, and limited access to resources and support, all of which can heighten irritability, conflict, and the likelihood of reacting aggressively. It’s important to note that this is a correlation, not a guarantee— poverty increases risk, but does not determine behavior for every individual. The other options don’t fit as well because the evidence does not support an inverse relation, no relation, or poverty reducing aggression.