Relational Aggression
Relational aggression is a covert form of bullying. It is defined as behavior that is intended to harm someone by damaging or manipulating his or her relationships with others. In Washington state bullying is qualified as “…the effect of substantially interfering with a student's education; or is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment.” (RCW 28.A.300.285). A pioneer study in this field examined different forms of bullying and found that relational aggression was a separate form of aggression and that it happened more often with girls. The authors also found that those students participating in relational aggression were more at risk for adjustment difficulties such as higher level of loneliness and risk for depression (Crick & Groepner, 1995). More recent research has supported the links between aggressors and victims of relational aggression and negative outcomes. (Risser, 2012, Fite et. al 2011). Further research suggests that individual interventions and not necessarily positive culture is more likely to reduce incidents of relational aggression.
Both media and culture are important issues to consider when discussing this topic. The popularity and interest in this topic has inspired several books by women who are dedicated to studying and publicizing this topic. Rosalind Wiseman, author of Queen Bees and WannaBees (2003) focuses on what parents can do about relational aggression with their young girls. Rachel Simmons, is another supporter and author of the book Odd Girl Out (2003, which showcases real stories of girls who have experienced this form of bullying.
As more information becomes available, more resources address this concept. Second Step is the general empirically supported social skills curriculum, however it doesn’t necessarily address the specific issues of relational aggression. Rosalind Wiseman has produced a curriculum for older students called Owning Up which addresses these issues, and there are several other resources for elementary school and middle school that address issues related to this topic including friendship, which is closely related to this topic
Both media and culture are important issues to consider when discussing this topic. The popularity and interest in this topic has inspired several books by women who are dedicated to studying and publicizing this topic. Rosalind Wiseman, author of Queen Bees and WannaBees (2003) focuses on what parents can do about relational aggression with their young girls. Rachel Simmons, is another supporter and author of the book Odd Girl Out (2003, which showcases real stories of girls who have experienced this form of bullying.
As more information becomes available, more resources address this concept. Second Step is the general empirically supported social skills curriculum, however it doesn’t necessarily address the specific issues of relational aggression. Rosalind Wiseman has produced a curriculum for older students called Owning Up which addresses these issues, and there are several other resources for elementary school and middle school that address issues related to this topic including friendship, which is closely related to this topic
Conclusion
The issues related to relational aggression are still being addressed and more research still needs to be done on interventions related to this topic. Preventative lessons on friendship and communication for girls may also lead to helping to prevent the situations that lead to this passive form of bullying and manipulation. It is also important to explore the differences in culture and what tools students need in order to combat this form of bullying which is very hard for adults to identify.