Its commentary is laced with descriptions suggestive of combat, linking excitement to violent action. On the other hand, the exposure given to sports violence by the media has stimulated increased efforts to control and prevent such behavior. The biological theory, proposed most notably by Nobel prize winner Konrad Lorenz, sees aggression as a basic, inherent human characteristic. Within this context, sports is seen as a socially acceptable way to discharge built-up aggression, a safety valve. In sports, frustration can be caused by questionable calls by officials, failure to make a particular play, injuries that interfere with optimum performance, heckling from spectators, or taunts by coaches or players.
Young athletes take sports heroes as role models and imitate their behavior.
Parents, coaches and teammates are also models who may demonstrate support for an aggressive style of play. Reinforcement may take the form of rewards, such as praise, trophies, starting position, respect of friends and family. Players who don't display the desired degree of aggressiveness may receive negative reinforcement through criticism from parents and coaches, lack of playing time, harassment by teammates, opponents, or spectators. These theories provide a basis for interventions that may curb excessive aggression, especially among young athletes. In addition, psychological forces can be addressed by modifying or controlling situations that produce frustration.