after marcus lost the student election for president of his high school class, he spread false rumors…

after marcus lost the student election for president of his high school class, he spread false rumors intended to spoil the reputation of the newly chosen president. marcus behavior is best explained in terms of: the frustration - aggression principle. group polarization. the just - world phenomenon. the mere exposure effect.
Answer
Brief Explanations:
- The frustration - aggression principle: This principle states that frustration (Marcus losing the election) often leads to aggression (spreading false rumors). Marcus was frustrated by his loss and lashed out in an aggressive way (spreading rumors) to deal with that frustration.
- Group polarization: This is about groups' attitudes becoming more extreme. There is no group context here related to Marcus's individual behavior of spreading rumors.
- The just - world phenomenon: It is the belief that people get what they deserve. Marcus's behavior is not about believing in a just world for the new president but about his own frustration.
- The mere exposure effect: It is about increased liking with more exposure. This has no relation to Marcus's behavior of spreading rumors out of frustration.
Answer:
the frustration - aggression principle.