Examination of anger expression styles of athlete families and fans

This study aims to examine the anger expression styles of athlete families and fans who participated as spectators in various sports competitions held in Konya in 2024. The Anger Expression Style (ANGER-STYLE) scale, developed by Spielberger (1988), was applied to 502 participants. This study employed a quantitative research method, using the independent t-test for pairwise comparisons and One-Way ANOVA tests for multiple comparisons. Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the relationships between the sub-dimensions of the scale. According to the results of the analysis, no significant difference was found in individuals' anger expression styles based on their athletic background. When examining the results related to the gender factor, it was determined that male participants showed statistically significant differences in the anger-out sub-dimension, while female participants showed significant differences in the anger-control sub-dimension. In the analysis of participants' anger expression styles based on age, significant differences were observed in the anger-in, anger-out, and total anger scores. It was found that the average scores of Generation X and Generation Y individuals significantly differed from those of Generation Z individuals. In the pairwise comparison related to athlete affiliation, a significant difference was found in favor of fans in the anger-out sub-dimension and total anger scores. Additionally, according to the multiple comparison results related to education level, it was observed that the average scores of high school and university graduates in the anger-out sub-dimension significantly differed from those of postgraduate degree holders, while in the anger-control sub-dimension, postgraduate degree holders had significantly different average scores compared to high school graduates. In conclusion, anger, like emotions such as happiness, sadness, and excitement, is an inherent feeling that manifests depending on various factors. Due to innate characteristics, life experiences, and the responsibilities imposed by life, anger control is gradually decreasing, affecting the sports community as well. Through deterrent sanctions and informative training, sports organizations can become environments that serve their intended purpose. Individuals should receive more comprehensive and understandable education on sports and the concept of fair play. Deterrent measures should be implemented for those displaying negative behaviors, and more academic studies should be conducted in this field. Keywords: Sport; athlete family; anger; anger expression style; sports fan