An investigation of the dynamics of aggression: Direct observations in icehockey and basketball

There have been significant problems in the study of sports aggression and they are linked to how aggression has been defined, measured, and analyzed. Following a review of the whole domain, this study aimed to construct a th eoretically coherent and ecologically valid framework for research on proce sses underlying-sports aggression and to contribute to the advancement of k nowledge in the area. An exploratory method using computer observational an alysis as the primary research method along with complementary questionnair es and personal reflections, considered aggression in two comparison sports : ice hockey and basketball. Data were compiled and classified by involved and independent experts relative to factors and behaviors associated with s ports aggression derived from a comprehensive review of the literature. Amo ng the study's findings were that: (a) aggression was instrumental in natur e two-thirds of the time; (b) aggressive acts typically occurred in cluster s and varied infrequency according to game circumstances; and (c) multiple variables and aggression theories were related to severely aggressive acts. The complex dynamics of sports aggression via similar naturalistic methodo logies is discussed.