The development of relational aggression

The Development of Relational Aggression provides a rich and detailed literature review on developmental processes associated with the perpetration of relational aggression (and related terms of indirect aggression and social aggression) across childhood, adolescence, and emerging adulthood (with a brief mention of relational aggression in adulthood). Relational aggression is defined as behavior that is intended to harm another’s relationships or feelings of inclusion in a group. Unlike physical aggression, the scars of relational aggression are more difficult to see. However, victims (and aggressors) may experience strong and long-lasting consequences, including reduced self-esteem, loneliness, substance use, eating pathology, depression, and anxiety. This volume begins by providing an overview of the field, including a discussion of definitions, developmental trajectories, methodology, and theoretical approaches. Additionally, the volume examines the biobehavioral and evolutionary processes associated with this type of behavior. The book also examines a number of risk factors and socializing agents and contexts (e.g., family, peers, media, school, culture) that lead to the development of relational aggression over time. An understanding of how these behaviors develop will help inform intervention strategies to curb the use of relational aggression in schools, peer groups, and family relationships, which are addressed in an extended chapter.