Reconceptualising Relational Aggression as Strategic Communication: Girls, Goals, and Their Peer Groups

Abstract

Since its inception, relational aggression has been conceptualised as a set of destructive attempts by young girls to get their own way, and these aggressive acts have been demonised in public and media debate. This article challenges the prevailing developmental psychopathologisation literature to centre the focus on functionality, positioning relational aggression as a set of behaviours that are used as specific communication strategies. A 'Girls' Relational Aggression Communication Model' is provided as a new conceptual framework that integrates positioning subtypes from the literature: 'popular', 'regular', and 'tough' girls. This reconceptualised communication model is a contribution to the field as it enhances understanding of the nuances in girls' relationships. In particular, it reframes the positioning of 'tough' girls, who have been largely ignored in relational aggression research.