Aggression used to obtain or retain a toy or other object is often referred to as “instrumental aggression.” This type of aggression is typically employed to achieve a specific goal, such as acquiring a desired object or maintaining possession of it.
Unlike hostile aggression, which is driven by anger and the intent to cause harm, instrumental aggression is more calculated. For example, a child might push another child away in order to grab a favorite toy. The intent behind this behavior is not to hurt the other child but to secure the toy for themselves.
Understanding instrumental aggression is important for parents, educators, and caregivers as it highlights the need for teaching children better ways to express their desires and resolve conflicts. Encouraging sharing and communication can help reduce the occurrence of such aggressive behaviors.