Social impacts of events and the role of anti‐social behaviour

Purpose – The research focusing on the social impacts of events on communities has reached a level of critical mass and this paper aims to synthesise the literature, including the research methods used and analytical techniques that have been employed in order to provide a platform for future research in this important area.Design/methodology/approach – The key method used is a literature review of all the available academic research into the social impacts of events on communities and the development of a model for future research.Findings – After reviewing the social impact literature, the paper finds that one negative social impact, in particular, has the potential to undermine the key positive impacts that events can deliver for a host community. This impact, which is collectively known as anti‐social behaviour (ASB) incorporates behaviour such as drunken, rowdy and potentially life and property threatening behaviour.Research limitations/implications – The consequences of the impact of ASB are so seri...