Three types of aggressive behavior (physical, verbal, and indirect) we
re investigated by help of peer estimations based on The Direct & Indi
rect Aggression Scales (DIAS) (Finland: Abo Akademi University) [Bjork
qvist et al., 1992b]. Aggressive behavior of adolescents of three age
groups (8, 11, and 15 years old), in Finland, (Finnish and Swedish spe
akers),Israel (secular and religious Israelis),Italy,and Poland were s
tudied (n=2094). Indirect aggression was, in proportional terms, the a
ggressive style mostly used by girls, across nations, ethnic groups, a
nd age groups studied. Verbal aggression was their second most used: s
tyle, and physical aggression was applied least often by girls. Among
boys, indirect aggression was, in all ages, the least used aggressive
style. Physical and verbal aggression was, by boys, used equally often
at ages 8 and 11, while, at the age of 15, verbal aggression had surp
assed physical aggression and was the most used style. Scores of victi
mization to other's aggression showed somewhat similar trends. (C) 199
8 Wiley-Liss, Inc.