Understanding Social Aggression in Girls: Tools for Parents

Why do girls sometimes use friendship as a weapon — and how can parents help? Join us for episode 6 of Parenting Like a Mother, where we dive into the complex world of social aggression in girls. Drawing on research from the University of Minnesota and real-world clinical experience, we explore how exclusion, gossip, and conditional friendships leave deep emotional scars — even though they’re harder to see than physical bullying. Through the host’s dual lens as a psychologist and parent, we unpack how social aggression unfolds developmentally, why it peaks in tween and teen years, and how cultural norms around “niceness” and popularity shape girls’ behavior. This episode introduces practical, age-appropriate strategies to help your child recognize healthy friendships, respond to relational aggression, and build lasting empathy. You'll learn the "screenshot pause" method for navigating online drama, how to spot early warning signs in both victims and aggressors, and when it’s time to step in. Whether your daughter is feeling left out or caught in the middle of friendship drama, this episode offers validation, guidance, and hope for a more connected, compassionate future. Topics discussed in this episode include: What social aggression is — and how it differs from physical bullying Why exclusion, silent treatment, and cyberbullying are so emotionally damaging How these behaviors emerge around age 6–7 and evolve through adolescence The impact of post-COVID changes on girls’ social behavior Why girls aren’t inherently “mean,” and how social norms contribute Warning signs that your child is being targeted — or engaging in social aggression How to support your child without overreacting or minimizing their experience The protective power of maternal support and empathy-building Tools for developing assertiveness, healthy boundaries, and digital literacy When to contact schools or seek professional help How parents remain a powerful influence, even in the teen years Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca Parenting Like a Mother on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenting_like_a_mother