Understanding the Distinctive Differences between Relationally and Physically Aggressive Behaviours Used in Early Childhood Contexts |
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| Authors: | Cara S Swit |
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| Institution: | 1. College of Education, Health and Human Development, University of Canterburycara.swit@canterbury.ac.nz https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7198-5869 |
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| Abstract: | Although there has been considerable research on the distinction between categories of relational and physical aggression, very little is known about the difference in nature of these behaviours. This study presented early childhood educators (N = 123) and parents (N = 112) with common relationally and physically aggressive behaviours, to determine whether item-level behaviours differ in prevalence, intervention and whether differentiated gender perceptions for each behaviour exist. Research Findings: Educators and parents reported observing and intervening in direct relationally aggressive behaviours more frequently compared to indirect relationally aggressive behaviours. Physical acts of aggression were reported more frequently compared to threats of physical aggression. Gender stereotypical perceptions of girls’ and boys’ aggression were evident, with boys being reported to engage in physical aggression more frequently. In comparison, relational aggression was more common in girls. At an item-level, there were some behaviours that educators identified both boys and girls using about equally. Practice or Policy: These findings highlight that meaningful differences exist between relationally aggressive and physically aggressive behaviours when examined at an item-level. A greater understanding of the most common behaviours used during early childhood will allow researchers, practitioners, and parents to focus their intervention efforts more specifically on these behaviours. |
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https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7198-5869