Abstract:

This paper explores the multidimensional pathways and influencing factors of exercise intervention in suppressing aggressive behavior. By integrating four theoretical frameworks—emotional regulation, cognitive control, social connection, and social identity recognition—we propose a dynamic interactive comprehensive model. This model systematically elucidates how exercise interventions mitigate aggressive behaviors through improving emotional states, enhancing cognitive functions, reinforcing behavioral synchrony, and boosting group identity. The study further analyzes the modulation effects of intervention types, cultural backgrounds, and individual characteristics. Additionally, we discuss the neurobiological and physiological mechanisms supporting these theoretical pathways and suggest that future research may optimize model validation through dynamic modeling techniques and other innovative methods.

Numerous empirical studies have supported the significant effectiveness of exercise interventions in reducing different types of aggressive behaviors, both in the short and long term. For instance, a 12-week aerobic exercise program demonstrated a marked reduction in verbal and physical aggression among adolescents. Acute high-intensity exercise has also shown positive effects in reducing aggressive scores following conflict simulation tasks. While both individual and group exercises contribute to suppressing aggressive behaviors, their mechanisms and effectiveness can vary based on the nature of the intervention, intensity, and duration.

The results highlight the enhancement of emotional regulation as a key pathway through which exercise lowers impulsive aggression. Exercise has been shown to alleviate anxiety and anger, leading to a decrease in emotional aggression. However, for instrumental aggression, which relies heavily on cognitive strategies and motivation, longer-term interventions may be necessary to achieve significant improvement. Similarly, team sports foster social connections and a sense of belonging, which further suppress aggression stemming from group conflicts.

Cultural background and individual traits significantly influence the efficacy of exercise interventions. In collectivist cultures, group exercises enhance social connection and belonging, effectively mitigating aggression. Conversely, in individualistic cultures, individual exercise is more frequently viewed as a method for emotional management, helping individuals alleviate stress and anxiety. This distinction underscores the adaptability and potential of exercise interventions across various contexts.

The paper also discusses the interplay between emotional regulation and cognitive control, demonstrating that they can reinforce each other in reducing aggression. Emotional regulation provides a stable psychological foundation for cognitive control, while improved cognitive control enables individuals to manage their emotions more effectively during conflicts. This bidirectional interaction, however, is subject to individual characteristics and the type of exercise performed.

Furthermore, the model emphasizes how social connection and social identity recognition interact at the group level, mitigating in-group and out-group conflicts. Behavioral synchrony in group exercises enhances emotional resonance and boosts social identity recognition, which collectively contribute to lowering aggression. However, the potential "double-edged sword" effect of strong in-group identity may lead to increased out-group hostility in certain contexts.

Neurobiological and physiological mechanisms are also discussed as foundational supports for exercise interventions. Key factors such as Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels, oxytocin release, and the functionality of the prefrontal cortex and amygdala play critical roles in emotional regulation and cognitive control. Exercise has been shown to enhance BDNF levels, improve the functional connectivity between the prefrontal cortex and amygdala, and regulate cortisol levels, all of which are integral to suppressing aggressive behavior.

In summary, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which exercise interventions suppress aggressive behavior. The proposed dynamic interactive comprehensive model provides a novel theoretical framework for future studies aimed at optimizing intervention strategies. The integration of individual and group levels, alongside the consideration of cultural contexts and individual characteristics, highlights the complexity of aggression management through exercise. Future research is encouraged to validate and refine this model, utilizing advanced methodologies and exploring the effects of exercise interventions on aggressive behavior in diverse populations.

Key words: exercise intervention, aggressive behavior, emotion regulation, cognitive control, social connection, group identity