Date

5-2014

Department

Counseling Department

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Chair

Lisa Sosin

Keywords

Relational Aggression

Disciplines

Counseling | Counseling Psychology | Psychology

Abstract

The developmental trajectory of relational aggression (RA) can launch as early as preschool and escalate from early to middle childhood, yet it is a phenomenon that may or may not endure the adult years. There is adequate understanding of relational aggression in the active phase, yet research that edifies the transitioning out process is dearth. Through a qualitative case study research design, the narratives of six females who ceased using RA enlightened the process of desistance. All females described the transitioning out process as having an identifiable turning point accompanied by cognitive and emotional shifts associated with recognizing, valuing, and experiencing quality relationships. Many females identified their faith and spirituality or a residential relocation as a significant contributing factor. All females perceived themselves today as feeling more content and secure, and other-oriented in relationships. Findings of this research birth a preliminary understanding of RA desistance, yet record that a heterogeneous property exists with respect to the chronological trajectory of RA cessation.

Download

Share

COinS