Effects of Media Violence on Relational Aggression

Relational aggression is a nonphysical form of aggression that harms through manipulation of relationships and feelings of social acceptance and inclusion. There is increasing empirical evidence that media violence can lead to relational aggression among viewers. This phenomenon, by which media aggression can lead to types of aggression other than the form viewed, is often referred to as the “crossover effect.” This entry defines relational aggression, reviews empirical evidence for the effects of media violence on relational aggression, presents theoretical models that attempt to explain this crossover effect, and concludes with a discussion of the implications of this research for enhancing our understanding of media violence effects, particularly for females.

Relational aggression is distinct from both verbal and physical aggression. Although specific behaviors vary by developmental ...