An Exploratory Analysis of Components of Revenge Experiences

ABSTRACT

Revenge refers to a retaliatory behavior following perceived harm to one’s well-being. It can include yelling, berating, and minor aggression as well as more extreme violence. Revenge has been identified as a causal factor in homicides, school shootings, and bombings. Despite the importance of understanding revenge, little is known about its different components, thus making it difficult to prevent and treat. In this study, survey data were analyzed from 458 primarily White, English-speaking, adult MTurk participants. They described a specific vengeful experience and answered follow up questions. Questions were based on rational-emotive behavior theory, a review of the literature, and clinical experience. Participants answered questions about their triggers and cognitions during the event, what they did, their emotions prior to and after engaging in revenge, the intensity of their urges, and outcomes. Triggering cognitions most associated with engaging in vengeful behavior were desires for retribution, punishment, and, unexpectedly, an accepting statement of why the transgressors engaged in their behavior. Participants reported more positive emotions and positive outcomes following engagement in revenge, challenging the bittersweet concept of revenge. Treatment implications are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Revenge
• vengeance
• avengers
• REBT

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).