Gender Disparities in Adolescent Aggression: An Examination of Reactive and Proactive Tendencies

Abstract

This study examines gender disparities in adolescent aggression, focusing on reactive and proactive tendencies. A sample of 300 adolescents (150 males, 150 females) aged 10–21 years was assessed using the Reactive–Proactive Aggression Questionnaire (Raine, 2006). Pearson correlation and independent samples t-tests were used for data analysis. Results revealed a moderate to strong positive correlation between reactive and proactive aggression. Males scored significantly higher on reactive aggression compared to females, while no significant gender difference was found in proactive aggression. These findings highlight the importance of gender-sensitive interventions for aggression prevention and suggest future research should include longitudinal designs and socio-environmental factors.