What term describes middle schoolers' social exclusion and spreading rumors?

• A. Relational aggression
• B. Physical aggression
• C. Verbal aggression
• D. Cyberbullying

Answer: (A)

Relational aggression describes harming others by damaging their social relationships or standing within a peer group. In middle school, where friendships and acceptance are central, excluding someone from a group and spreading rumors are classic examples. This kind of aggression targets social connections rather than the body, and it can be subtle or covert, yet it can have serious effects on a student’s self-esteem, belonging, and academic engagement. It’s distinct from physical aggression (involving physical harm), verbal aggression (insults or threats), and cyberbullying (harm carried out online), though relational aggression can occur in person or online.