ToM

Question 1

DEFINITION

Answer 1

• interpreting the mental and emotional states of others and understanding these are different from our own
• we learn to do this through inferring what people’s ToM may be like through their behaviours

Question 2

BULLYING

Answer 2

• Jon Sutton 1999 argues that bullies are not ‘oafs’ who hurt due to lack of social skills yet posses superior ToM abilities meaning they are accomplished in exercising bullying behaviour
• good reason to suppose bullies are proficient in understanding others mental states

Question 3

PREDICTING VICTIMS BEHAVIOUR

Answer 3

• bullying is repeated targeting less powerful individuals
• bullies appear to be experts at electing victims
• to understand ToM would be great advantage in identifying victims vulnerabilities
• eg like ability of victim if less liked then then won’t receive support

Question 4

ACTING AS A RINGLEADER

Answer 4

• some bullies operate as organisers of ‘trusted lieutenants’ other individuals who act as bully’s agents
• bullying often takes place in group setting so bully can be described as ringleader
• this requires ToM abilities to manipulate others to carry out their wishes

Question 5

STRATEGIC MANIPULATION

Answer 5

• bullies are adept at using different types of bullying in different circumstances and with different victims
• sometimes use direct means of controlling others such as physical aggression and threats
• or can use relational forms of bullying such as rumours and teasing when they judge exclusion is more effective
• being adaptable and flexible like this requires an ability to understand other people’s perceptions and beliefs and how these can be manipulated