Facial Metrics and Aggression in Hockey Players
Author Information
Author(s): Justin M. Carré, Cheryl M. McCormick
Primary Institution: Brock University
Hypothesis
Individual differences in the facial width-to-height ratio are associated with aggression and dominance.
Conclusion
The study found that a larger facial width-to-height ratio in men predicted higher levels of aggressive behavior in both laboratory and naturalistic settings.
Supporting Evidence
- Men had a larger facial width-to-height ratio and higher scores of trait dominance compared to women.
- Facial width-to-height ratio predicted 15% of the variance in aggressive behavior in men.
- Individual differences in facial width-to-height ratio explained 29% of the variance in penalty minutes for male varsity hockey players.
Takeaway
Men with wider faces tend to be more aggressive, which means their faces can show how likely they are to act aggressively.
Methodology
The study involved three experiments measuring facial metrics and aggression in men, including a questionnaire and analysis of penalty minutes in hockey.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported measures of aggression and dominance.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on male participants, limiting generalizability to females.
Participant Demographics
88 undergraduate students (37 men and 51 women; mean age=18.98 years), predominantly Caucasian.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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