Girls Against Girls: Why We Are Mean to Each Other and How We Can Change by Bonnie Burton

Bibliographic Information

Burton, B. (2009). Girls Against Girls: Why We Are Mean to Each Other and How We Can Change. San Francisco, CA: Zest Books. ISBN: 097901736.

Summary

This nonfiction book discusses popular scientific theories for why girls are mean to one another, ranging from the need to compete for limited resources to being bullied by someone at home. The next section discusses various tactics used for girl to girl bullying, such as gossiping, excluding, and boyfriend stealing, why they occur, and what victims can do about it. The book also goes into depth about situations where reinforcements are needed, such as parents, administrators, or police in order to curtail the harassing behavior.

Review

Too often girl to girl harassment is considered a normal part of fitting in and establishing a social hierarchy at school. This book points out that bullying behaviors stem from a variety of reasons, but ultimately, it comes down to personal choice. Bullies choose to treat other girls meanly. The author, as well as famous female musicians and other public figures, encourage readers to make the choice to be kind and stop dividing into cliques.