Relational Versus Physical Aggression: An Overview

There is much neurological and cognitive research contributing to explanations of physically aggressive behavior. The brain’s activity and functioning are significant in the determination of reasons for this form of aggressive behavior. Relational aggression is another form of aggression, however, and most research in this area focuses on the social or peer relationship side of relational aggression. Little, if any, research has been done on the neurological contributions to relational aggression. Since relational aggression and overt aggression both hold the same intention of inflicting harm on another person, it is reasonable to compare these two forms of aggression and their possible similarities. This review focuses primarily on neurological differences and cognitive deficits.