A relationship between verbal aggression and personal network size

Aggression has been associated with negative social consequences. Yet, more adaptive views of aggression hold that it can have beneficial correlates as well. In four studies, we examined the relationship between aggression and personal network size, a property associated with important social benefits. The results pointed to a consistent positive relationship between verbal aggression and social network size. This relationship remained after controlling for third variables like extraversion and when using different measures of network size. The fourth study sought to explain the relationships in terms of mutual relationships with status and power, but found no support for mediation.

► In this study, we examine the relationship between aggression and PNS. ► Study 1 provides first evidence that verbal aggression relates positively to PNS. ► Study 2 replicates this finding controlling for extraversion. ► Study 3 replicates the finding with a different measure of PNS. ► Study 4 shows that the relationship cannot be explained by power or status.