Aggression in Sport

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Aggression in Sport Aggression can be defined as ‘intent to harm outside the laws of the game’ and revolves around behavioural misconduct. This can have a negative or positive effect on a performer depending on the individual, but when the aggression is considered to be channelled for a positive purpose it becomes assertion. However the distinction between whether conduct is aggressive or assertive can be difficult to distinguish in some cases. The causes of aggression can be divided into nature or nurture. Nature is suggested in the instinct theory where aggression is a characteristic shared by all humans as an innate biological drive which is expressed through sport. As a part of this drive theory is frustration, caused by the prevention of us achieving our desired goals, which in turn contributes to more aggression. Similarly, over arousal can be the cause of aggression, with some people naturally phased by the circumstances of sport they become aggressive as a release for their over arousal. The opposing debate of nurture is demonstrated in the social learning theory by Bandura; this study showed that we learn from others seen as role models (significant others) and replicate the behaviour they show. This would mean that aggressive behaviour displayed at elite level would be observed by supporters (particularly the youth) and the same misconduct would be expressed by them, although they see themselves as being the elite performer they idolise, not as being unsporting. For example footballers such as Cristiano Ronaldo or Luis Suarez are idolised by many, and they are well known for simulating in order to gain free kicks, therefore we can expect the future generations to partake in this gamesmanship as well. We may also see aggressive behaviour as a result of underperformance, which causes frustration as you are not achieving the goals you hoped to and
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