Similar to victims of physical aggression, victims of relational aggression tend to suffer negative consequences, such as depression, loneliness, and lower self-esteem. Relationally victimized children are also likely to be rejected by their peers and avoid social situations due to anxiety or fear of negative evaluation. In line with these social difficulties, victims of relational aggression were observed to initiate peer interactions much less than non-victims. Not surprisingly, children who are relationally victimized by their own friends tend to have more negative friendship qualities, such as higher levels of conflict and exclusivity.

Okay, but what about the aggressors? Are there any negative consequences for them?

Like relationally victimized children, relational aggressors can also experience negative outcomes, such as depression and social isolation. Relationally aggressive individuals also tend to be rejected by their peers. In college students, relationally aggressive behavior is associated with negative life satisfaction, negative and unsatisfying relationships, and emotional instability. Relationally aggressive children also have poorer quality friendships when compared to non-aggressive children, characterized by high conflict and desires for exclusivity.