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Self-Reported Aggression and Impulsivity in Forensic and Non-Forensic Populations: The Role of Gender and Experience

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Abstract

Gender differences in aggressive behavior are traditionally seen as extremely robust. Yet, on closer inspection, the reasons for these differences appear to be incredibly complex as a wide range of moderating variables appears to influence the behaviour. Further, the effect of these variables is often gender specific. We examined aggressive beliefs and self-rated aggressive behaviour and impulsivity in forensic (115 males, 133 females at three closed prisons in the North of England) and non-forensic populations (114 males, and 122 females at the University of Leeds). Participants completed the Revised EXPAGG Questionnaire, the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire, the Aggressive Acts Questionnaire and the Barratt Impulsivity Scale. Violent men and women, while more aggressive than both undergraduates and non-violent offenders, were equally likely to report their involvement in physical acts of aggression and showed similar levels of aggression and impulsivity. Previous experience of aggression, together with elevated levels of anger and impulsivity were better predictors of aggressive behavior than gender in all participants. These results suggest that gender differences in self-report measures (on cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions) in forensic populations may be less clear-cut than many have previously believed, particularly in the most aggressive individuals.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the Governors and staff of HMP Durham, HMP Hull and HMPYOI New Hall for their assistance in conducting this research. Particular thanks are due to the Senior Psychologists at these establishments, Hilary Laurie, Sharon Avis and Pauline McAvoy for their expert advice and input into the running of these studies. Thanks are also due to Linda Palethorpe at HM Prison Service Planning Group Research and Development Section for her invaluable advice. We would also of course like to thank the prisoners for their co-operation and help.

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  1. School of Psychology, The University of Leeds, Room 2.03, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK

    Paul Smith & Mitch Waterman

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  1. Paul Smith
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Correspondence to Paul Smith.

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Smith, P., Waterman, M. Self-Reported Aggression and Impulsivity in Forensic and Non-Forensic Populations: The Role of Gender and Experience. J Fam Viol 21, 425–437 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-006-9039-x

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