Mean Girls--Realities of Relational Aggression
Relational aggression is described as any behavior that is intended to harm someone by damaging or manipulating relationships with others. Unlike other types of bullying, relational aggression is not as noticeable as physical aggression. However, the effects can be long lasting.
Studies have shown that males tend to use more physical aggression than females. Females tend to use more subtle forms of aggression to express their anger. RA has been noted as early as preschool age and can continue into adult workplaces. Research shows that students who have been the targets of RA have increased depression, lower GPA, increased anxiety and sadness, more anger, eating disorders and loneliness. Students who tend to be relationally aggressive have been shown to become increasingly more depressed, rejected, withdrawn and delinquent.
Tips for Parents
Involve girls in activities outside of school so they are exposed to different types of people
Encourage relationships with adults and other children who appreciate them for what they are
Be available to listen and don't downplay the importance of an incident
Teach kindness and model that behavior
Talk about both sides of an issue. Girls may tell you about being a victim, but not talk about being the aggressor
If your daughter is caught in the middle, encourage her to take the high road and support the victim, or at least not take part in the aggression
If necessary, see professional counseling
Become computer savvy
Do not allow your child to have a computer in her room or other isolated areas. If she has a laptop, set guidelines for where she can use it and the length of time she can use it
Be aware of the online activities of your child
Research filtering and parental control programs for your computer
Further resources on RA:
Websites: www.opheliaproject.org
www.relationalaggression.com
www.daughters-sisters.org
www.smartgirl.com
Books:
Odd Girl Out: The Hidden Culture of Aggression in Girls. Rachel Simmons
Queen Bees & Wannabees: Helping Your Daughter Survive Cliques, Gossip, Boyfriends, and Other Realities of Adolescence. Rosalind Wiseman
Reviving Ophelia: Saving the Selves of Adolescent Girls. Mary Pipher
Our Last Best Shot: Guiding Our Children Through Early Adolescence. Laura Sessions Stepp
Mrs. DuBose and Mrs. Moore would like to say thank you to all of you
who have been so generous and supportive with our programs this year.
We had a successful fundraiser with the "Enjoy the City" coupon book
sale. You donated $140.00 to the "Heavenly Hats" campaign to
provide hats for cancer patients. WES raised $173.00 for M.A.D.D.
(Mothers Against Drunk Driving). Thank you for your time and generosity.
Our parents are the greatest!
;)
