Episode 17: When "Mean Girls" Don't Grow Up - Relational Aggression in Adult Women

In this episode of the Modern MILF Podcast, we explore why “mean girl” behavior — technically known as relational aggression — persists into middle age, what psychology research says about its roots, and how to break the cycle. We talk about real reasons behind these behaviors, how they affect both targets and perpetrators, and offer practical tips for avoiding mean-spirited behavior and responding to it in healthier ways. Whether you’re dealing with workplace cliques, social circle tension, or family drama, this episode gives you the insight and tools to rise above the drama and build more supportive relationships. Commercial Sponsor: BADFOXXX Lust Between Us Couples Card Game, use the link below: https://lustbetweenus.com/modernmilf Connect with me! Instagram  TikTok  Facebook Contact me! [email protected] To access my Coaching Course on Rejection, free PDF downloads, or to schedule a coaching call with me, go to: LinkTree Credits: Writing, recording, and editing by me, Bethany Theme music by MobyGratis Sources & References Cited Alison M. Poor – Predictors of Relational Aggression in Women Across Adulthood (2023) — relational aggression persists across adult lifespan and is influenced by hostility and rumination. https://aquila.usm.edu/dissertations/2037/? Relational aggression and marital quality: A longitudinal study — evidence relational aggression appears in adult relationships. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28054802/ Cognitive control moderates relational aggression in adults — aggression patterns and cognitive factors. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0191886923001903 Social impact of relational aggression on adult mental health — links between adulthood relational aggression and anxiety, depression. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12144-025-08147-6? Blog overview of adult mean girl psychology — social standing, control, and behaviors in workplaces and social circles. https://josiesjournal.com/the-psychology-of-adult-mean-girls/? Effects of relational aggression in adolescence on emotional development — background on long-term psychological impacts. https://www.newportacademy.com/resources/empowering-teens/why-are-teenage-girls-so-mean/? Mean Girls Grown Up, Cheryl Dellasega