Date of Graduation
1999
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MA
College
Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
Department
Communication Studies
Committee Chair
Matt M. Martin
Committee Member
Brian R. Patterson
Committee Member
Theodore Avtgis
Abstract
A need to study the nonverbal aspect of aggression is argued because the inclusion of nonverbal aspects within the original conception of verbal aggression suggests that the role of nonverbal cues in the expression of aggression might be stronger than originally thought. To test the potential relationship of nonverbal aggression with other personality variables, a 30-item scale of nonverbal aggression was developed. A study of 179 college students is reported which sought to investigate the possibility that nonverbal aggression is related to verbal aggression, nonverbal immediacy, assertiveness, and responsiveness. Gender differences in nonverbal aggression was also investigated. The results revealed that nonverbal aggression is positively related to verbal aggression and assertiveness, and negatively related to responsiveness. Significant results were not found regarding the relationship between nonverbal aggression and nonverbal immediacy. Additionally, males were found to be more nonverbally aggressive. The results are discussed in terms of the multidimensionality of the 30-item scale of nonverbal aggression. Limitations are given and directions for future research are suggested.
Recommended Citation
Geiser, Jamie Leigh, "An exploration of the relationship of nonverbal aggression with verbal aggression, nonverbal immediacy assertiveness, and responsiveness." (1999). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 10411.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/10411