The Moderating Effect of Empathy Between Self-control and Aggression

• In Event: Emotions, Empathy, and Consequences of Strain

Abstract

A large body of literature finds that low self-control is associated with a variety of antisocial behaviors, including aggression. In addition, those who report less empathy may be more inclined to engage in aggressive behaviors due to an inability to take the perspective of others. The current study investigates the associations between self-control and empathy on proactive and reactive aggression using a college sample. It is hypothesized that empathy may also moderate the association between self-control and aggression. Findings suggest self-control is a greater predictor of aggression; however, a significant interaction revealed those who reported less empathy and low self-control reported greater aggression. Implications on empathy training are discussed.

Authors

• Katherine Perez, Sam Houston State University

• Danielle Boisvert, Sam Houston State University

• Chelsey S. Narvey, Sam Houston State University

• Jessica Wells, Boise State University

• Richard H. Lewis, University of Arkansas at Little Rock

• Todd Armstrong, University of Nebraska at Omaha

• Eric Connolly, Sam Houston State University