Exposure to Media on Perceptions of Violence as a Function of Trait Aggression and Athletic Status

Abstract

Little research has been conducted regarding the perceptions of violence and the variables that influence these perceptions, especially in a population primed for more aggressive behaviors than others: collegiate athletes. The present study examined the effects of trait aggression and exposure to media on perceptions of violence in athletes using a 2 x 2 x 3 design. Participants (N = 91) were randomly assigned to watch a violent or nonviolent video clip after completing a demographic questionnaire that included athletic status and a trait aggression questionnaire. After watching the clip, participants completed a provocation stories task. Although there was no main effect of exposure to media, F(1, 79) = 0.18, p = .675, η p = .002, power = .070, there were main effects for trait aggression, F(1, 79) = 16.47, p ≤ .001, η p = .173, power = .980, and athletic status, F(2, 79) = 4.88, p = .010, η p = .110, power = .789. No 2-way interactions were observed. Results indicated a statistically significant 3-way interaction, F(2, 79) = 3.17, p = .047, η p = .074, power = .592. The study’s implications for college students, especially those with high levels of trait aggression, and future directions are discussed. https://doi.org/10.24839/2325-7342.JN23.2.147