The structure and content of verbal and physical aggression among Israeli youths

The aim of this study is to test an aggression model. Data were obtained from 943 students in the 7th, 8th, and 9th grades of junior high schools in a northern Israeli city and its suburbs. A structural equation model analysis confirmed that there is a significant positive correlation between the constructs of perception (i.e., aggressor and aggression), means (i.e., behavioral and emotional capabilities), and guidelines (i.e., scripts) and that behavioral performance (i.e., aggressive or nonaggressive behavior) is influenced significantly only by guidelines and means. In addition, it was found that boys and younger youths tend to present higher levels of aggressiveness across all constructs as compared to girls and older youths. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.