Exposure to violent imagery can lead to increased aggression, as proven in laboratory settings. However, an analysis of crime data from major American cities over several years showed that the release of violent movies was associated with a decrease in assaults, contrary to the common belief. The researchers suggest that viewing violent films may act as a deterrent to crime by keeping individuals, particularly young men prone to violence, indoors and away from risky behaviors such as drinking, which is a primary factor in violent behavior. Thus, the self-sequestration caused by watching violent movies appears to outweigh any potential priming effect of aggression.