Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026

Three Laboratory Procedures for Assessing Different Manifestations of Impulsivity in Rats
Published on: March 17, 2019
The role of attention problems and impulsiveness in media violence effects on aggression
Edward L Swing1, Craig A Anderson
1Department of Psychology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Abstract:
Previous research has established media violence as a causal risk factor for aggressive behavior. Several theoretical mechanisms have been identified to explain this effect. The present study assessed 422 undergraduate students to test the possibility that individual differences in attention problems and impulsiveness can help explain the link between violent media and aggression. Attention problems and impulsiveness proved to be a distinct construct from other processes believed to mediate aggression (aggressive beliefs, aggression related schemata, trait anger, and trait hostility). Attention problems and impulsiveness were uniquely related to both media exposure (total weekly hours and violent content) and aggression. Attention problems and impulsiveness were particularly related to impulsive (as opposed to premeditated) aggression. These results suggest that attention problems and impulsiveness may play an important role in violent media effects on aggression.
Related Concept Videos
Aggression
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Bullying
Causes of Social Behavior III: Biological and Environmental Influences
Impact of Individuals on Individuals
Human Genetics
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...

