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Menstrual Cycle: Phases and Reaction to Frustration

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Abstract

Females in various phases of their menstrual cycle were tested for aggressive behavior in a controlled double-blind training task involving an element of frustration. Specifically, using shock administration, 45 subjects attempted to train a learner remotely, via closed circuit television. Females in the premenstrual phase utilized the highest levels of shock while those in the intermenstrual phase showed a significant tendency to use higher shock levels as the training progressed. The findings support earlier studies that suggested the premenstrual female is more aggressive during this point in her cycle than at any other time.

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Schonberg, W.B., Costanzo, D.J. & Carpenter, R.S. Menstrual Cycle: Phases and Reaction to Frustration. Psychol Rec 26, 321–325 (1976). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394394

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394394

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