Humans and animals have similarities and differences, which make human beings unique in their behavior. Unfortunately, not all of these differences are positive. According to Eric Fromm, in his book Anatomy of Human Destructiveness, humans have what he calls "malignant aggression," where there is an intent to harm another. The result of this intent can be seen with spousal abuse, crime, or even bullying. In a classroom, a student can be purposely rude, rowdy or even, after time, use verbal or physical abuse. A teacher, recognizing this tendency, can use specific approaches to reduce or eliminate the behavior.
             Adolescence is a difficult time for any child, even without any intent towards aggressive behavior. Some children push for independence and individuality, although the flip side of this means breaking away from support by caregivers. Fromm states that during this phase, the youth is looking for a personal frame of reference, since this is what gives the individual the ability to act and develop a sense of identity. If young people are not given the opportunity to express themselves, they may become even more frustrated and angry. On the other hand, there are those youths who are afraid of breaking away and becoming independent, experiencing the detachment from their caregivers and experiencing loss. Some youths, therefore, do not develop a well-defined identity and feel pressured.
             If aggression is part of person's character, can there be any solution for altering or eliminating this behavior? Fromm states that since malignant forms of aggression are not innate, "they can be substantially reduced when the socioeconomic conditions are replaced by conditions that are favorable to the full development of man's genuine needs and capacities" (482). In a classroom setting, the teacher first has to carefully watch the behavior of the students, particularly for malignant aggression. This needs to be re...