Facing the TOEFL iBT^®  exam becomes a lot easier when you engage in practice tests, one of the most invaluable strategies for effective preparation. 

The simulated assessments for the TOEFL Reading section will not only enable you to familiarize with the format and structure of the actual exam but also hone crucial skills required for success. Moreover, you can develop the ability to comprehend complex texts efficiently, identify key information, and employ effective time management strategies. 

Therefore, let’s take up this TOEFL reading practice test on the topic - Human Aggression - for a better understanding of the areas we need to improve!

Reading Instructions

• You have 15 minutes to read the following passage and answer all 9 questions related to it.
• Most questions are worth 1 point, but the last question is worth more. The directions indicate how many points you will receive for that specific question. 
• The specific section/paragraphs have been provided again with the question for ease of understanding and quick solution.
• Some questions include a word or phrase that is highlighted in the question as well as in the paragraph for quick reference. 

Human Aggression 

The most readily identifiable form of aggressive behavior is inter-animal aggression, where one animal attacks another. Psychologists have employed various approaches to comprehend aggressive behavior in humans.

Biological Perspective

In their quest to understand aggressive behavior, psychologists delve into the biological realm, investigating the structures and chemicals that influence it. The hypothalamus, a crucial brain region, plays a critical role in triggering instinctive aggressive reactions when prompted by specific stimuli. While this innate response is observed in many animals, the intricate human brain suggests the involvement of additional structures that help regulate these instinctive behaviors.

The sociobiological perspective, an extension of the biological approach, suggests that aggression is not only natural but also advantageous for human survival. It views much of our social behavior, including aggression, as driven by genetics. Drawing on Darwin's theory of evolution, it argues that individuals with traits favoring survival, such as aggressiveness, are more likely to reproduce, passing on these genes to future generations.

However, the sociobiological view has faced criticism. One argument is that human intelligence, not aggression, has been the dominant factor in our survival. Another critique points to the significant variation in human behavior, suggesting that individuals are not solely controlled by aggressive urges.

Psychodynamic Perspective

Psychodynamic theorists, such as Freud, propose that inner conflicts are pivotal to understanding aggression. Freud believed that aggressive impulses stem from the frustrations of daily life, especially in childhood. Since even the most loving parents are unable to immediately satisfy all of their demands, children often feel the need to release their angry emotions on others, including their parents. However, children also learn to suppress most violent urges out of fear of punishment from their parents and the potential loss of parental affection. The Freudian perspective views individuals as 'steam engines,' suggesting that repressing aggressive impulses can lead to explosive behaviors later in life. As a result, they need a release when they are pent up for a long time. Indirect expressions, such breaking furniture, may be directed at parents, or they may be directed later in life towards strangers. Therefore, prevention, according to this approach, involves channeling aggression in less harmful ways, like verbal expression or shared activities.

Psychodynamic theory, stemming from Freud's ideas, introduces the concept of catharsis, considering it a safety valve for releasing pent-up aggression. Like a pressure cooker, the theory suggests that holding in anger can lead to an eventual explosion. Some studies show a temporary decrease in anger after cathartic activities, like hitting a punching bag. In spite of this, mixed results have been found in research on its effectiveness. While some studies suggest that catharsis reduces tension and lowers the likelihood of future aggression, others propose that expressing aggression, even indirectly, can actually prime individuals for further aggression. Moreover, the act of expressing aggression can also reinforce the aggressive behavior itself, making it more likely to be repeated in the future. Therefore, venting anger through yelling or physical aggression may not be helpful and could even escalate the situation.

Cognitive Perspective

Cognitive psychologists assert that behavior is influenced by values, situational interpretations, and conscious choices. For example, individuals who hold the belief that retribution and punishment are necessary for maintaining social order may be more inclined to support aggressive legal measures, such as harsh penalties and imprisonment. On the other hand, people who believe in the rehabilitation of offenders and emphasize addressing the root causes of criminal behavior may be less likely to support aggressive punitive measures. A cognitive theory posits that unpleasant feelings triggered by aggravating events may lead to aggression, but cognitive factors, such as past experiences and interpretations of others' motives, play a crucial role in the decision to act aggressively.

According to a cognitive theory, distressing and painful events can evoke negative emotions. These emotions, in response, might potentially lead to aggressive behavior, although not necessarily automatically. Cognitive factors play a crucial role in this process. Individuals make decisions about whether to engage in aggressive actions based on their past experiences with aggression and their interpretation of others' motives. Research supporting this theory indicates that individuals prone to aggression often misinterpret the motives of others, assuming harm even when it is not intended.

Directions: Once you have read the passage, answer the following questions.

Paragraph 3

The sociobiological perspective, an extension of the biological approach, suggests that aggression is not only natural but also advantageous for human survival. It views much of our social behavior, including aggression, as driven by genetics. Drawing on Darwin's theory of evolution, it argues that individuals with traits favoring survival, such as aggressiveness, are more likely to reproduce, passing on these genes to future generations.

1. According to the sociobiological perspective, human aggression is considered to be
   1. solely a product of human intelligence
   2. solely driven by environmental factors
   3. advantageous for survival and passed on genetically
   4. etrimental to survival and discouraged by evolution

Paragraph 5

Psychodynamic theorists, such as Freud, propose that inner conflicts are pivotal to understanding aggression. Freud believed that aggressive impulses stem from the frustrations of daily life, especially in childhood. Since even the most loving parents are unable to immediately satisfy all of their demands, children often feel the need to release their angry emotions on others, including their parents. However, children also learn to suppress most violent urges out of fear of punishment from their parents and the potential loss of parental affection. The psychodynamic perspective views individuals as 'steam engines,' suggesting that repressing aggressive impulses can lead to explosive behaviors later in life. As a result, they need a release when they are pent up for a long time. Indirect expressions, such breaking furniture, may be directed at parents, or they may be directed later in life towards strangers. Therefore, prevention, according to this approach, involves channeling aggression in less harmful ways, like verbal expression or shared activities.

1.  The word “channeling” in the passage is closest in meaning to
   1. containing
   2. diffusing
   3. blocking
   4. directing

1. What does the word ‘they’ in the passage refer to?
   1. individuals
   2. steam engines
   3. aggressive impulses
   4. explosive behavior

1. The psychodynamic perspective, as outlined in the passage, suggests that inner conflicts contributing to aggression are primarily rooted in:
   1. childhood experiences and daily life frustrations
   2. genetic predispositions and evolutionary traits
   3. cognitive distortions and misinterpretations
   4. verbal expression and shared activities

1. The author mentions that "even the most loving parents are unable to immediately satisfy all of their demands" to 
   1. highlight the importance of setting clear boundaries for children
   2. criticize parents who do not meet their children's needs
   3. explain the source of frustration that can lead to aggressive impulses in children
   4. advocate for increased parental affection as a means to prevent aggression

Paragraph 7

Cognitive psychologists assert that behavior is influenced by values, situational interpretations, and conscious choices. For example, individuals who hold the belief that retribution and punishment are necessary for maintaining social order may be more inclined to support aggressive legal measures, such as harsh penalties and imprisonment. On the other hand, people who believe in the rehabilitation of offenders and emphasize addressing the root causes of criminal behavior may be less likely to support aggressive punitive measures. A cognitive theory posits that unpleasant feelings triggered by aggravating events may lead to aggression, but cognitive factors, such as experiences and interpretations of others' motives, play a crucial role in the decision to act aggressively.

1. Which of the sentences below best expresses the essential information in the highlighted sentence in the passage? 
   1. People who favor retribution for social order may support aggressive legal measures, while people who do not support it may oppose them.
   2. People favoring strict punishment for social order are more likely to support aggressive legal measures than those with different beliefs.
   3. People who do not favor strict punishment may still endorse aggressive legal measures selectively.
   4. People who favor strict punishments for social order may not support aggressive legal measures.

Paragraph 8

According to a cognitive theory, distressing and painful events can evoke negative emotions. These emotions, in response, might potentially lead to aggressive behavior, although not necessarily automatically. Cognitive factors play a crucial role in this process. Individuals make decisions about whether to engage in aggressive actions based on their past experiences with aggression and their interpretation of others' motives. Research supporting this theory indicates that individuals prone to aggression often misinterpret the motives of others, assuming harm even when it is not intended.

1. he cognitive method outlined in Paragraph 8, all the following may influence the decision whether to act aggressively, with the exception of a person’s
   1. moral values
   2. painful events
   3. experiences
   4. belief of others’ intention

Paragraph 6

Psychodynamic theory, stemming from Freud's ideas, introduces the concept of catharsis, considering it a safety valve for releasing pent-up aggression. Like a pressure cooker, the theory suggests that holding in anger can lead to an eventual explosion. (A) Some studies show a temporary decrease in anger after cathartic activities, like hitting a punching bag. (B) In spite of this, mixed results have been found in research on its effectiveness. (C) While some studies suggest that catharsis reduces tension and lowers the likelihood of future aggression, others propose that expressing aggression, even indirectly, can actually prime individuals for further aggression. (D) Moreover, the act of expressing aggression can also reinforce the aggressive behavior itself, making it more likely to be repeated in the future. Therefore, venting anger through yelling or physical aggression may not be helpful and could even escalate the situation.

Directions: Look at the part of the passage that is displayed above. The letters (A), (B), (C), and (D) indicate where the following sentence could be added.

1. It can desensitize them to violence and make it seem like a more acceptable response. Where would the sentence best fit?
   1. Choice A
   2. Choice B
   3. Choice C
   4. Choice D

1. Directions: Complete the table below by matching five of the six answer choices with the approach to aggression that they exemplify. This question is worth 3 points.
   

   Approach to Understanding Aggression	Associated Claims
   Biological Approach	_________
   Psychodynamic Approach	_________ _________
   Psychodynamic Approach	_________ _________

   
   Answer Choices
   
   1. Sometimes, aggressive tendencies towards individuals manifest themselves subtly.
   2. People that are aggressive find it helpful in their fight for survival.
   3. A misperception of the intentions of others might lead to aggressive conduct.
   4. As one ages, there is a decrease in the need to express aggressive impulses.
   5. A person's principles and beliefs impact their decision to act violently.
   6. Aggressive behaviour can arise from suppressing aggressive impulses.

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Reading Passage - Human Aggression

1. Answer: C

Explanation: This is a Factual Information question asking for specific information that

can be found in the passage. The correct answer is choice C, “advantageous for survival and passed on genetically.”. This answer choice is essentially a paraphrase of Paragraph 3, sentence 3: “Drawing on Darwin's theory of evolution, it argues that individuals with traits favoring survival, such as aggressiveness, are more likely to reproduce, passing on these genes to future generations.”. Option A is incorrect because the passage states that the sociobiological perspective argues against aggression being solely driven by intelligence. Option B is incorrect because the passage mentions that the perspective views aggression as "natural," implying it's not solely influenced by environmental factors. Option (D) is incorrect because it contradicts the core idea of the sociobiological perspective presented in the passage.

2. Answer: D

Explanation: This is a Vocabulary question. The word being tested is channeling. It is highlighted in the passage. The correct answer is choice D, “directing”. If a person’s aggression is directed in less harmless ways, like verbal expression or shared activities, it can be prevented. While blocking (repressing) it will result in explosive behavior in future, aggression cannot be contained or diffused, as they create pent-up emotions.

3. Answer: C

Explanation: This is a Reference question. The word being tested is ‘they’. It is highlighted in the passage. The correct answer is choice C, “aggressive impulses”. This is a simple pronoun-referent item. The word ‘they’ here refers to something that “are pent up for a long time” and will lead to “explosive behaviors”. Therefore, it is the aggressive impulses that need to be channeled through less harmful ways.

4. Answer: A

Explanation: This is a Factual Information question asking for specific information that

can be found in the passage. The correct answer is choice A, “childhood experiences and daily life frustrations”. This answer choice is essentially a paraphrase of Paragraph 5, sentence 2: “Freud believed that aggressive impulses stem from the frustrations of daily life, especially in childhood.”. Choices B and C are not mentioned at all. Choice D is mentioned in the passage as a fact, however, it is presented as a channel to prevent aggression. 

5. Answer: C

Explanation: This is a Rhetorical Purpose question. It asks you why the author mentions that even the most loving parents are sometimes unable to fulfill their child’s desires in the passage. The phrase being tested is highlighted in the passage. The correct answer is choice C, “explain the source of frustration that can lead to aggressive impulses in children”. The author mentions the inability of parents to fulfill all their children's demands to illustrate how this situation can lead to frustration and ultimately contribute to the development of aggressive impulses among children. Option A is not the answer, as the passage doesn't focus on setting boundaries. While Option B might indirectly raise questions about parental behavior, criticizing is not the primary purpose. Similarly, the author doesn't advocate for a specific solution, and the focus remains on explaining the source of frustration, not proposing solutions related to parental affection, as in Option D.

6. Answer: B

Explanation: This is a Sentence Simplification question. The referenced sentence in the passage is highlighted. The correct answer is choice B. It contains all the essential information in the highlighted sentence. It maintains the key elements, such as ‘favoring strict punishment’, ‘social order’, and the likelihood of supporting aggressive legal measures compared to those with different beliefs. Option A is incorrect, as it states that people who do not support ‘social retribution’ to maintain social order will oppose. But in the original statement it is stated, they are less likely to support the strict punishments. As the paragraph does not have any reference to people who do not favour strict punishment to maintain social order, Option C presents a completely different opinion. Again, with Option D, there is no mention of people who do not support aggressive legal measures.Therefore, it does not make the same comparison as the highlighted sentence.

7. Answer: A

Explanation: This is a Negative Factual Information question asking for specific information that can be found specifically in Paragraph 8. Option A is the correct answer. Options B (“distressing and painful events”), C (“past experiences”) and D (“ interpretation of others' motives”) are both explicitly mentioned in this context in the mentioned paragraph. The sentences in Paragraph 8 says, “According to a cognitive theory, distressing and painful events can evoke negative emotions…Individuals make decisions about whether to engage in aggressive actions based on their past experiences with aggression and their interpretation of others' motives.”. Although Option A, “moral values” is mentioned in the previous paragraph, is not mentioned specifically in Paragraph 8, so it is the correct answer here.

8. Answer: D

Explanation: This is an Insert Text question. The sentence provided, “It can desensitize them to violence and make it seem like a more acceptable response.” is best inserted at choice (D). 

Placing the sentence at Choice A separates the sentence from the point it directly relates to, making the transition less smooth.: While Choice B is factually accurate, inserting the sentence here offers no specific explanation for the mixed results. Similarly, while the sentence fits thematically in Choice C, placing it after "prime individuals for further aggression" feels redundant.Therefore, Choice D provides the most logical and cohesive location for the sentence within the context of the passage, further elaborating on the negative consequences of catharsis and explaining how it can prime individuals for future aggression by desensitizing them to violence.

9. Answer 

Explanation: This is a Fill in a Table question. It is completed correctly below. Choice B is the correct answer for the “Biological Approach” row. Choices A and F are the correct answers for the “Psychodynamic Approach” row. Choices C and E are the correct answers for the “Cognitive Approach” row. Choice D should not be used in any row.

Correct Choices

Choice A: “Sometimes, aggressive tendencies towards individuals manifest themselves subtly.” belongs in the “Psychodynamic Approach” row based on Paragraph 5. That paragraph, in explaining the psychodynamic approach, states, “...they need a release when they are pent up for a long time. Indirect expressions, such breaking furniture, may be directed at parents…”.

Choice B: “People that are aggressive find it helpful in their fight for survival.” belongs in the “Biological Approach” row because, as stated in Paragraph 3, “The sociobiological perspective, an extension of the biological approach, suggests that aggression is not only natural but also advantageous for human survival.” The remainder of that paragraph explains the ways in which aggressive behavior can be useful in the struggle for survival. Neither of the other approaches discusses this idea, so this answer choice belongs here.

Choice C: “A misperception of the intentions of others might lead to aggressive conduct.” belongs in the “Cognitive Approach” row based on Paragraph 8. This paragraph discusses how people decide to be aggressive (or not) largely based upon their interpretations of other people’s motives. It goes on to say “...cognitive factors, such as past experiences and interpretations of others' motives, play a crucial role in the decision to act aggressively.”. Accordingly, this answer choice belongs in this row.

Choice E: “A person's principles and beliefs impact their decision to act violently.” belongs in the “Cognitive Approach” row based on Paragraph 7, which states, “Cognitive psychologists assert that behavior is influenced by values, situational interpretations, and conscious choices.” Thus, this is an important aspect of the cognitive approach.

Choice F: “Aggressive behaviour can arise from suppressing aggressive impulses.” belongs in the “Psychodynamic Approach” row based on Paragraphs 5 and 6. This is made clear in both of those paragraphs in the area of the passage that deals with the psychodynamic approach.

Incorrect Choice:

Choice D: “As one ages, there is a decrease in the need to express aggressive impulses.” is not mentioned in relation to any of the three approaches to aggression discussed in the passage, so it is an incorrect choice.

Now that you have solved this test and verified your answers, be prepared to take up more of these TOEFL practice tests and boost your confidence! Let us know in the comments below how many of the answers did you recognize correctly!