We’ve all heard “mean girl” stories and many of us probably have lived them. But the social rejection and humiliation kids inflict on each other is not unique to girls; in fact, this week’s Mom Enough guest cites evidence that relational aggression is equally common among boys and girls. Whatever the gender of the children involved, being on the receiving end can be devastating. And as wrong as it seems, there often are rewards for the perpetrators in terms of popularity and social status. As researcher Adrienne Banny attests, it will take a concerted effort by parents, teachers and other caring adults to turn around this very disturbing trend!

 

What has been your experience with relational aggression, either in your own life or that of your children? How did you deal with it? Share your thoughts in our REPLY space below!

 

For more information on longitudinal studies of relational aggression at the U of M, click here.

For the Institute of Child Development at the U of M, click here.