Several scenarios were developed to examine the influence of structural position on the emergence of disputes and on the legitimation of aggression. A standardized set of closed-ended questions was used for each of 12 scenarios. The analysis revealed a direct relationship between the intensity of an attack with the emergence of a dispute and the legitimation of aggression. Situational aspects of structural position did not extend beyond sex differences, emphasizing the generalizing effect of male-on-male confrontation in the legitimation of aggression. Substantial variations were observed in the level of upset, the making of claims, and the use of aggression. While there was a high degree of variation across scenarios, individuals routinized the process for dealing with a dispute according to a progression through levels of upset, claiming, and aggression. Strengths and limitations of scenario-based research for understanding violence in society are discussed. Further research is recommended to explore factors that bring police into routine conflict and the role of police in deterring aggression. The 12 scenarios are briefly described in an appendix. 28 references and 4 tables