Question 1

What is the difference between hostile and instrumental aggression in sport?

Accepted Answer

Hostile aggression is when the primary goal is to cause harm or injury, often driven by anger or frustration. For example, a player deliberately punching an opponent. Instrumental aggression is when the aggression is used as a means to achieve a non-aggressive goal, like a rugby player making a hard but legal tackle to win the ball. The intent is not to harm but to succeed in the game.

Question 2

Why do football fans sometimes become violent?

Accepted Answer

Football fan violence, or hooliganism, can be caused by several factors: high arousal and excitement from the match, deindividuation in large crowds where individuals feel anonymous, alcohol consumption reducing inhibitions, and strong tribal loyalty to their team. Rivalries, poor policing, and provocation from opposing fans can also trigger violence.

Question 3

How can violence in sport be reduced?

Accepted Answer

Strategies include education campaigns promoting respect and fair play (e.g., the FA's Respect programme), stricter punishments like red cards, fines, and bans for violent players, and environmental controls such as all-seater stadiums, CCTV, and banning alcohol at matches. Improving refereeing consistency and promoting positive role models also help.

Question 4

Is violence in sport becoming more common?

Accepted Answer

While high-profile incidents get media attention, overall violence in professional sport has decreased due to stricter rules, better refereeing, and education. However, some argue that the increased commercialisation and pressure to win may lead to more cynical fouls. Spectator violence has declined in many countries due to better policing and stadium design.

Question 5

What role does the media play in sport violence?

Accepted Answer

The media can both reduce and increase violence. On one hand, they highlight violent incidents, which can deter players and fans. On the other hand, they may sensationalise violence, increasing arousal and potentially inciting copycat behaviour. Media hype before big matches can also raise tensions. However, they also promote anti-violence campaigns.

Question 6

Can violence ever be justified in sport?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Sport is based on fair play and respect. However, some argue that instrumental aggression (e.g., a hard tackle in rugby) is part of the game and not considered violent if within the rules. But any action intended to harm is against the spirit of sport and can lead to serious consequences like injury, bans, and legal action.

Violence in sport

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

Ready to test yourself?

Related Topics in OCR GCSE Physical Education

Aerobic and anaerobic exercise

Applied anatomy and physiology

Applying the principles of training

Characteristics of skilful movement

How to Revise Violence in sport — OCR GCSE Physical Education

Examiner Tips for Violence in sport

Key Marking Points