Modelling of Emotional Contagion in Soccer Fans

Berend Jutte, C. Natalie van der Wal

Abstract: This research introduces a cognitive computational model of emotional contagion in a crowd of soccer supporters. It is useful for: (1) better understanding of the emotional contagion processes and (2) further development into a predictive and advising application for soccer stadium managers to enhance and improve the ambiance during the soccer game for safety or economic reasons. The model is neurologically grounded and focuses on the emotions “pleasure” and “sadness”. Structured simulations with different crowd compositions and type of matches showed the following four emergent patterns of emotional contagion: (1) hooligans are very impulsive and are not fully open for other emotions, (2) fanatic supporters are very impulsive and open for other emotions, (3) family members are very easily influenced and are not very extravert, (4) the media is less sensitive to the ambiance in the stadium. For model validation, the model outcomes were compared to the heart rate of 100 supporters and reported emotions. The model produced similar heart rate and emotional patterns, thereby establishing its validity. Further implications of the model are discussed.