Relational Aggression in Schools: What It Is and How It Effects Students by Phoebe

Relational aggression is defined as “behavior that manipulates or damages relationships between individuals or groups, such as bullying, gossiping, and humiliation," according to the APA. It is often overlooked because it isn’t as visible as other forms of bullying, even though it can be just as damaging as the more physical side of bullying. This is a type of bullying that is hurtful socially, emotionally, and mentally. Society needs to recognize this as a problem and educate children on how to spot and manage it effectively, instead of pushing it under the rug.

Relational aggression is often inconspicuous and can often be ignored, especially when the victim can’t identify it as bullying and/or doesn’t know how to handle the situation. Some examples of relational aggression include isolation, or a friend saying they’ll stop hanging out with you if you don’t do what they tell you. Highlighting these issues, so that children know it doesn’t have to be physical for it to be bullying, is important so they know the signs to look for.

In short, while not always obvious, relational aggression is a common, hurtful type of bullying. It can be ignored and dismissed, and it can be hard to identify. This being said, it is important for kids to be able to tell when it’s happening and to know that it is a form of bullying.