“Published in the February issue of the journal American Sociological Review, one study followed approximately 3,700 students in 8th, 9th and 10th grade for one school year and found that popular adolescents were more likely to act aggressively to climb the social hierarchy among their peers. This trend was apparent in both sexes. […]
Although popular teens were more likely to act aggressively, the researchers found an exception: adolescents in the top and bottom 2 percent of the social hierarchy displayed the least aggression toward others. […]
Regardless, the research helps create a more accurate picture of high school social dynamics — one against the claim that social misfits are the most frequent tormentors. The research also has value for institutions hoping to combat bullying, which affects an estimated 30 percent of students every year, according to other research.”
http://news.discovery.com/human/popular-teens-more-aggressive.html#mkcpgn=twnws1
