The Protective Role of Resilience in Indirect Aggression Perpetration and Victimization

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between resilience and indirect aggression, specifically relational and social aggression, utilizing a sample of 104 females aged 18–22. Indirect aggression, characterized by behaviors such as social exclusion, gossip, and manipulation, is associated with significant emotional and interpersonal difficulties. Using a theoretical basis that includes gender schema theory, social learning theory, and social information processing theory, this study investigates whether resilience has a significant relationship in both the perpetration of and victimization through the use of indirect aggression. Participants completed self-report measures, including the Adult Resilience Measure – Revised and the Young Adult Social Behavior Scales for both perpetration and victimization. Linear regression analyses revealed significant negative associations between resilience and all forms of indirect aggression, suggesting that higher resilience is linked to lower involvement in both perpetrating and experiencing these behaviors. These findings underscore the potential of resilience-building interventions to reduce the prevalence and impact of indirect aggression and offer insights into the psychological mechanisms underlying these social dynamics