Intervention or Involvement:A Video Observational Analysis of Bouncers in Aggressive Encounters

Suonperä Liebst, L. and Ejbye-Ernst, P. and Philpot, Richard and Bruvik Heinskou, M. and Demant, J. and Lykke Dausel, K. and Rosenkrantz Lindegaard, M. (2020) Intervention or Involvement:A Video Observational Analysis of Bouncers in Aggressive Encounters. Deviant Behavior, 41 (11). pp. 1383-1392. ISSN 0163-9625

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Abstract

Little is known about how bouncer–patron interactions may influence a bouncer’s use of physical aggression. To address this gap, we offer a micro-interactional analysis examining real-life aggressive bouncer behavior captured by venue surveillance cameras. Quantitative results show that bouncer physical aggression is associated with interactions in which bouncers are directly involved as a conflict party, but not with interactions where they solely intervene as a third-party. Further, a qualitative analysis of emotional cues identifies anger as a plausible mechanism underpinning bouncer aggression. We consider the implications of these findings for night-time economy violence prevention strategies and discuss the relevance of video data for barroom research.