Background/Purpose
The extant literature regarding sport violence suggests that violent actions taken by athletes can significantly influence those taken by members of society. However, there exists a paucity of literature concerning the growing popularity of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) among U.S. consumers and its effects on general perceptions of violence in society. This research examines how MMA viewership impacts the consumer perceptions of violent behaviors in society.
Method
The theoretical framework on which this research is based stems from cultural spillover theory (CST), which suggests there is a greater likelihood that different forms of violence will arise in society when violence is socially legitimized. Using qualitative research methods, 15 personal interviews with participants identified as MMA fans was conducted. The protocol for interviews consisted of questions concerning respondent perceptions of violence in MMA in relation to violence in society.
Analysis/Results
Data analysis involved the coding of interview responses to allow patterns appearing as common across the respondents to emerge. The recurring patterns were then organized into meaningful thematic categories representing the various perceptions of violence in MMA and in society. Our findings reveal that MMA viewership positively influences perceptions of violence in sport and society.
Conclusions
To many, the sport of MMA is viewed as legitimized street fighting. However, the growing popularity of the sport among U.S. consumers is unquestionable. According to our findings, the power of MMA to influence individual of perceptions of violence in society can be detrimental to both consumers of the sport and society in general.
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