Personality Differences Between Dutch Football Fans and Nonfans

The present study provided a comparison of Dutch football fans (N=60) with nonfans (N=43) using an individual differences approach. While football supporters scored higher on a measure of psychopathy, there was no difference on an assault scale. Within the sample of fans, both assault scores and anticipating a “hard fought” match were positively related to fans' self-reported likelihood of involving themselves in a fight. Additionally, those most supportive of their team expressed a greater likelihood of joining in a disturbance. The results were discussed in the light of recent findings with Canadian ice hockey spectators.