Verbal Trigger Events—Other Catalysts and Precursors of Aggression

A number of researchers have discussed five possible primary causes of verbal aggressiveness as an individual difference, including genetics (Beatty & McCroskey, 1997), disdain for other, psychopathological basis, social learning, and argumentative skill deficiency (Infante et al., 1984). Some causes of verbal aggression (Wigley, 2006) might include situational variables such as chemical influences (e.g., alcohol or medicines) or verbal utterances by other (i.e., Verbal Trigger Events). However, few studies have actually examined situational or “event” variables that might lead just about anyone to engage in verbal aggression. The focus of this chapter is on Verbal Trigger Events, other catalysts and precursors of state verbal aggression. Although the crosssituationally consistent nature of verbal aggressiveness as a personality trait helps predict the degree to which an individual will engage in aggression on some occasion, this chapter explores situational conditions or events most likely to lead to aggression. Some connections in the research literature will be identified that help clarify the nature of Verbal Trigger Events, other catalysts and precursors of aggression. Initially, this chapter will explore verbal trigger events and reactive verbal aggression.