Effect of Verbally Aggressive Television Programming on Viewers’ Self-Reported Verbal Aggression

ABSTRACT

This study examined the effect of verbally aggressive media on self-reported verbal aggression. Using a theoretical framework provided by social cognitive theory, participants were randomly assigned to watch either a verbally aggressive television show or a neutral show. Participants' verbal aggression was assessed both several weeks before exposure and then again immediately after exposure. A between-subjects analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) indicated an interaction between participants' sex and exposure condition, with males reporting greater verbal aggressiveness after exposure to the verbally aggression stimuli.

Keywords:

• Entertainment Media
• Social Cognition Theory
• Television
• Verbal Aggression

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jack Glascock

Jack Glascock (PhD, Michigan State University, 1996) is an associate professor in the School of Communication at Illinois State University.