Does NFL Have a Problem With Player Violence? Wiersma-Mosley Discusses Her Research Into It

University of Arkansas
Jacquelyn Wiersma-Mosley

This month’s Short Talks from the Hill features Jacquelyn Wiersma-Mosley, professor of human development and family sciences at the University of Arkansas and the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

Wiersma-Mosley’s research focuses on violence against women, including risk factors for victimization among marginalized populations, and understanding men’s sexual assault perpetration. Last fall, she and undergraduate student Krystyna Gotberg published a study about player violence in the National Football League.

“For violence against women incidences, on average, there were four-game suspensions,” Wiersma-Mosley says in the podcast. “So that’s somewhat good, right? We’re holding players accountable. Four games out of 16 games is a lot for their season. But, if you read the NFL policy regarding any types of violence towards women or, really, violent acts, it’s six games minimum.”

Wiersma-Mosley also discusses the implications of this research outside of the NFL.

To listen to the podcast, click the link above or go to Arkansas Research, the home of science and research news at the University of Arkansas.

Short Talks From the Hill highlights research and scholarly work at the University of Arkansas. Each segment features a university researcher discussing their work. Previous podcasts can be found at the link above or by visiting arkansasresearch.uark.edu.

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