Are Graphic Media Violence, Aggression and Moral Disengagement Related?

It is well established that violent media can increase levels of aggression. The aim of the
present study was to examine whether cognitive distortions mediate the relationship
between enjoyment of violent media and the frequency in which people are exposed to
violent media, and whether this exposure to violent media mediates the relationship
between cognitive distortions and levels of aggression. Eighty-six participants
completed questionnaires assessing enjoyment of and frequent exposure to film and
television violence, lyrical violence in music, and computer game violence. Participants
were also assessed with respect to frequency of aggression and moral disengagement.
Mediation analysis indicated partial mediation effects of moral disengagement
regarding the relationship between enjoyment of violent media and the frequency of
exposure to violent media; and full mediation effects of moral disengagement in the
frequency of exposure to violent media–aggression relationship. The study emphasizes
the role that cognitive distortions such as moral disengagement play in digesting violent
media, making it more acceptable and therefore increasing the likelihood of higher
levels of aggression.