Overview
This lecture covers the causes of violence among sports performers and spectators, as well as the implications of violence for society, individual performers, and sports as a whole.
Causes of Violence in Sports Performers
- Frustration due to obstacles blocking a goal can lead to aggression (frustration-aggression hypothesis).
- Retaliation to aggressive acts by other players may cause violence.
- Anger at referees, umpires, or officials' decisions can trigger violent responses.
- The nature of certain contact sports (e.g., rugby, ice hockey) can lead to violence.
- Violence may be used to increase chances of winning, such as injuring opponents.
- Desire to intimidate opponents can result in violent behavior.
Causes of Violence in Spectators
- Frustration with the score or result can lead to aggressive acts.
- Ritualistic or traditional behavior, such as hooliganism, may cause violence.
- High-stakes contests or grudge matches increase likelihood of violent incidents.
- Alcohol or drug use can contribute to violent spectator behavior.
- Spectators may imitate violent behavior seen in the event (imitation).
- Deindividuation, or loss of personal responsibility in a crowd, can foster violence.
Implications for Society
- Increased costs for policing sporting events.
- Negative international reputation for countries known for violent sports.
- Loss of respect within society for violent behaviors.
- Property damage around sports venues and cities.
- Fear among local residents living near sports facilities.
Implications for Performers
- Loss of sponsorships and related financial benefits.
- Lengthy bans from competition.
- Damage to personal reputation and status as role models.
- Exposure to criticism and possible online abuse.
- Negative impact on athlete's family.
- Potential loss of job or being transferred to another team.
- Difficulty being signed by other teams due to poor reputation.
Implications for the Sport
- Loss of sponsors and financial support for the sport.
- Increased costs for policing, CCTV, and stewards at events.
- Decrease in family and female attendance at events.
- Potential international bans from competitions.
- Generation of negative role models within the sport.
- Loss of media revenue due to negative perceptions.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Frustration-Aggression Hypothesis — Suggests aggression occurs when a goal is blocked, causing frustration.
- Hooliganism — Violent, unruly, or destructive behavior by fans.
- Deindividuation — Loss of self-awareness and moral restraint in a crowd.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on personal experiences or witnessed incidents of violence in sports.
- Review aggression theories in sports psychology for deeper understanding.