Bullying Among Girls

Abstract

The focus of this study was to identify whether there was a pattern of instability within the friendship bonds of a group of young girls aged between 10 and 12-years-old. Changes were monitored over 16 months within friendship clusters of dyads, triads and larger groups. Research has shown a trend towards gender difference in preferred forms of aggression. The relationship of this to the instability of the friendship bonding and ensuing conflicts among the girls is considered. Instability in the friendship bonds and groupings among the girls was found to be in evidence. The structure of these groups in the context of conflict was identified, as was the role of some individuals in bringing about the pattern of instability within the groups. The pattern and frequency of these changes are given in the context of recent work on gender. The girls considered their friendships extremely important and nominated the breaking of a friendship as the most anxiety provoking aspect of school life. Themes were uncovered that can be developed to support schools in addressing conflicts between girls.