This study examined alcohol-aggression outcome expectancies in a group of young male offenders.
While the study found no differences between levels of violence and alcohol consumption, findings did indicate that high levels of trait anxiety, trait aggression, trait anger, and trait anger suppression were associated with alcohol-related violence among offenders who perpetuated violence in pursuit of material goals. In addition, offenders who used violence in pursuit of social dominance showed high levels of trait aggression and trait anger, while offenders who used violence as a defense in response to a threat showed lower levels of trait aggression and trait anger. Data for this study were obtained from 149 young male offenders serving time for an offense of violence that was alcohol related. Offenses were classified into one of three types: violence in the pursuit of material goals; violence in the pursuit of social dominance; and violence as defense in response to a threat. Results of analyses found partial support for the hypothesis that offenders who use violence in pursuit of material goals would have the highest levels of trait aggression. Results indicate no significant difference in levels of trait aggression between offenders who use violence in pursuit of material goals and those who use violence in pursuit of social dominance. Contrary to the study's hypothesis, results indicate that offenders who use violence in pursuit of material goals had the highest levels of trait anxiety. Findings from the study are also discussed in relation to differential group profiles and treatment needs. Tables and references