The role of potential protective factors in the relationship between anger and aggression: A cross-cultural investigation

In the United States, those of Asian descent have been perceived by many as members of a non-aggressive "model minority" (Paciotti, 2005). As a result, little research has been conducted examining the Asian experiences of anger and aggression. Much of the research that has been conducted has been based upon the assumptions that: (1) Asian cultural values include the belief that aggression is unacceptable and results in serious negative consequences and (2) that these beliefs consequently serve as a protective factors against aggression in this population (e.g., Nagayama Hall, Sue, Narang, & Lilly, 2000; Nagayama Hall et al., 2005). However, the validity of these assumptions has not been examined empirically. In the present study, Caucasian and Asian/Asian American participants were asked to rate their tendencies to experience anger, their perceptions of the acceptability of and consequences for aggressing, and their engagement in aggression. The results revealed that, contrary to the predominant stereotypes, Asians/Asian Americans reported engaging in greater direct aggression and found aggression to be more acceptable than Caucasians. Furthermore, endorsement of Asian American values was related to greater reports of engagement in indirect aggression in the Asian sample; however, the belief that aggression is unacceptable served as a protective factor in the relationship between anger and indirect aggression in this group. Finally, whereas these beliefs protected those of Asian descent from engaging in direct aggression when their trait-anger was low, the anticipation of severe consequences for aggression did so when their trait-anger was high. The implications of these findings with respect our understanding of the Asian/Asian American experience, future research and clinical approaches are discussed.