As World Cup fever sets in, increased hooliganism and soccer-related violence are legitimate international concerns.

Previous research has linked sports-related hooliganism to ‘social maladjustment’ e.g. previous episodes of violence or dysfunctional behaviour at home, work or school. However, social bonding and a desire to protect and defend other fans may be one of the main motivations not only for hooliganism, but extremist group behaviour in general, according to new Oxford University research.

The study, published in Evolution & Human Behaviour, canvassed 465 Brazilian fans and known hooligans, finding that members of super-fan groups are not particularly dysfunctional outside of football, and that football-related violence is more of an isolated behaviour.

Lead author Dr Martha Newson, said: “Our study shows that hooliganism is not a random behaviour. Members of hooligan groups are not necessarily dysfunctional people outside of the football community; violent behaviour is almost entirely focused on those regarded as a threat – usually rival fans or sometimes the police.

“Being in a super fan group of people who care passionately about football instantly ups the ante and is a factor in football violence. Not only because these fans tend to be more committed to their group, but because they tend to experience the most threatening environments, e.g. the target of rival abuse, so are even more likely to be ‘on guard’ and battle ready.”

Why do you think soccer attracts a hooligan element? Have you been watching the World Cup? What do you think so far?