Self-Esteem and Violence By Guards and State Troopers At Attica

A theory is presented in which emotional violence is related to efforts to protect self-esteem and the sense of competence. In this theory, necessary conditions for violence include its legitimation; the ability to engage in violence being part of the self-concept; and threats to self-esteem. The instances of excessive violence by state troopers and guards in the retaking of Attica prison are explained by the application of the theory.