A conceptual model of ego depletion and alcohol-related aggression

The primary purpose of the current paper is to review existing literature on alcohol-related aggression and propose a cohesive model to advance our understanding of this behavior. Experimental research highlights that a drinker's level of self-control impacts the aggression inducing effects of alcohol, however, assessments used to measure this type of aggression are limited. Extant investigations utilize trait self-control only, neglecting the influence of state self-regulation. Daily variation in self-regulatory demands has been found to inhibit impulse control, however, methodological techniques to assess self-regulation variation have not been applied to help explain alcohol-related aggression. The current paper argues for a conceptual model of alcohol-related aggression that integrates both trait and state levels of regulatory control. The proposed cohesive model is suggested to help explain alcohol consumption, aggressive behavior, and alcohol-related aggression. Recommendations for testing the model as well as implications of the model are discussed.