ABSTRACT
This study examines aggravating and mitigating circumstances surrounding spectator fights at stadiums and arenas in North America. Data were collected utilizing a sample of video recordings posted to a popular video-sharing website. A thematic analysis of the data reveals several influences including the role of team allegiances, alcohol use, security presence, and bystander behavior. Potential preventive and reactive interventions to discourage violence in this setting are discussed and evaluated.
Declaration of interest
The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.
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Notes on contributors
Steven Block
STEVEN BLOCK, Ph.D., is an assistant professor at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Connecticut. He has previously published articles in Western Criminology Review, The Prison Journal, and Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency. His research interests include violent offending, motor vehicle theft, and victimless crime.
Eric Lesneskie
ERIC LESNESKIE, Ph.D., is an associate professor at Bloomsburg University in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. His research interests include juvenile delinquency, school violence, and co-offending.