The Neuroanatomy of Human Aggression

Animal behaviour has provided key insights into the neural circuitry controlling aggression and violence in human beings.The large evolutionary advances in the human brain have occurred in the frontal lobe, especially the pre-frontal cortex.However the same basic neuroanatomical structure and neural networks exist as are found in lower vertebrates and mammals.The two basic categories of aggressive behaviour, namely defensive rage and predatory behaviour are controlled mainly by the hypothalamus and amygdala with sensory input from the cerebral cortex aided by monoaminergic chemical release from the brain stem.It is hoped that recent advances in the understanding of the neuroanatomy behind aggression will lead to a reduction or at least modification of violent behaviour in mankind.