Hendrik Sonnabend

Objective We empirically investigate age and ability as potentially important drivers of individual misconduct in team contests. Methods We estimate fixed effects regression models using data from top‐level soccer. In addition, we carry out a comprehensive sensitivity analysis. Results Our estimates indicate a significant positive association between a player's age, on the one hand, and his (relative) ability, on the other, with the propensity to misbehave. Conclusion Our results are consistent with social learning theory, in the sense that the high‐status group of players may have learned that the consequences of misbehavior are small and manageable. Furthermore, we demonstrate that misbehavior is costly to both the players and their teams.