Does sports cause domestic violence spikes? UPMC therapist weighs in

The Spark

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Psychology Today released a report in 2020 that research suggests that when an NFL team lose, domestic violence increases. Dr. Rafat Omar, clinical psychologist with UPMC says several factors goes into how sports can intensity a domestic violence relationship.

“Sporting events can often be high stress situations for fans who are really into it. You know, that kind of pressure of. Is my team going to win, especially in a more meaningful games can lead to people feeling. A little bit more on edge. And, you know, when people are on edge, they can be more aggressive. I also think the increased use of alcohol at some of these events can lead to some of it, too. I mean, as we know, when people are drinking, their inhibitions get a little bit lower, too. How about to say if there's anything wrong with, you know, kicking back and having a drink or two within reason? But sometimes that can tip the edge for people. You know, psychologically. One of the biggest factors that I think needs to be considered is how a lot of times people who are really avid sports fans, not only the casual watcher, but someone who really is into it, can tie their favorite teams to their identity. And when. That identity is. A sports team on the loose. That can lead to a lot of negative emotions and a lot of deep frustration or even anger. And they're not using a healthy outlet, so they turn to the violence. You know, it's unfortunate, but it can happen that way. People really invest a lot of time, resources and sometimes even money into these things. And unfortunately, this is the result.”

Domestic violence can include physical, emotional, mental, and financial abuse. According to Dr. Omar, even if a sports team wins, that could also trigger an abuser. Dr. Omar says recognizing the signs of an abuser early is very important.

“Recognizing the signs early and set in. Those limits to keep yourself safe is really important before it escalates to know, I guess, sort of peak of what it might be. I mean, if you start seeing those warning signs early, then, you know, trying to put a stop to it or getting out of the situation before it gets out of hand. But most importantly, you know, your safety is paramount. So, if you are feeling unsafe in any situation, coming up with a plan to get somewhere safe. If you feel as though the person, especially with sports as a sporting event as occurring, the positive thing here is that their plan. So, it's not like it's something that's spontaneous. If it's, hey, every time someone so watches whatever sport it is, these things tend to happen, then starting to create a contingency around that. Don't be around for that beat elsewhere. Or if the problem only seems to happen when alcohol is involved. Having that discussion beforehand, hey, let's not drink during this event or limit it to one whatever the person feels safe doing. But you know, also reach out to your resources. Utilize any resources you can do not allow yourself to be isolated. In these situations.”

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