Cognitive moderators of negative reactions to verbal aggression

Cognitive predispositions in information processing (self-discrepancies, sensitivity to feedback, and dysfunctional attitudes) were predicted to moderate reactions to verbally aggressive messages. In Study One, 247 participants received an aggressive or nonaggressive message imbedded in a TV commercial. In Study Two, 285 friend dyads completed surveys on verbal aggressiveness, cognitive predispositions, and psychological and relational well-being. Study Three was a replication with 153 roommate dyads. Results suggest that self-discrepancies and sensitivity to feedback interacted with receiving verbal aggression to predict psychological well-being in receivers, and that verbal aggressiveness was related to lower relational quality and satisfaction.