What is harmful about relational aggression? Why address it?
Peer aggression cannot be passed off as “normal” when you examine its harmful effects and consider its implications in future adult relationships. In some cases, the lasting effects of relational aggression are considered more hurtful than those of physical aggression. Specifically, when children are victims of multiple forms of aggression, their risk for having adjustment problems increases (Pristein, Boergers & Vernberg, 2001).
Social rejection in elementary school is associated with later antisocial behavior (Dodge et al, 2003). Children who are victimized by relational aggression also experience higher levels of depression and loneliness (Crick & Grotpeter, 1996). Relational victimization has also been linked to anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem and depression (Austin & Joseph, 1996; Baumeister and Leary, 1995; Gilbert, 1992).
Research has also found that youth being victimized have contemplated suicide (Owens, Shute, & Slee, 2000). While many children may be targets or perpetrators of relational aggression at some point in their lives, not all will experience the full extent of the harmful effects of relational aggression. But for those who do, the consequences can be lifelong and devastating.