ABSTRACT
Accepting the reality of aggressive family interactions tends to create dissonance; acknowledging the darker side of family relations often runs counter to our efforts to hang on to an idyllic depiction of family interactions (Stafford & Dainton, 1994). While the most violent examples of family aggression tend to take center stage, it is critical not to overlook the role mundane, routine everyday interactions could play in aggressive exchanges (Duck, 1992; Infante, Chandler, & Rudd, 1989; Stafford & Dainton, 1994). These verbally aggressive exchanges typically occur under the radar, being less obvious to outsiders, but have the potential to occur with great frequency (Marshall, 1994). In spite of potential restrictions or challenges, it becomes imperative that family members learn how to manage aggressive expressions between one another. Failure to ascertain when, how, or why aggressive messages are utilized could lead to the potential for psychological as well as physical harm to family members. In addition, aggressive messages can contribute further to the weakening of family bonds between members.
