The relation between adverse experiences and proactive aggression: The moderating role of emotional sensitivity

Abstract

Although adverse experiences might influence human aggressive behavior, not all individuals who experience adverse experiences will behave aggressively. Therefore, it is necessary to study the moderating mechanisms underlying this relationship. Based on the diathesis-stress model, we explored the moderating role of emotional sensitivity in the association between adverse experiences and proactive aggressive behavior. Specifically, 940 individuals completed the measures of adverse experiences (family neglect and community violence exposure), proactive aggression and emotional sensitivity. The results found that adverse experiences were significantly and positively associated with one's aggressive behaviors. Furthermore, the strength of these relationships was moderated by emotional sensitivity. Individuals with low emotional sensitivity showed weaker associations compared to those with high emotional sensitivity, suggesting the lower emotional sensitivity served as a buffer against the negative effects of adverse experiences on proactive aggressive behavior. These findings supported the diathesis-stress model and deepen our understanding of the link between adverse experiences and proactive aggression.