What type of aggression is primarily covert and involves relational harm?

The appropriate term for aggression that is primarily covert and involves relational harm is relational aggression. This form of aggression focuses on damaging someone's social relationships or social status rather than inflicting physical harm. Relational aggression can manifest through behaviors such as gossiping, social exclusion, or spreading rumors, all of which can undermine an individual's social connections and self-esteem.

This type of aggression is particularly relevant in social psychology as it highlights the importance of social dynamics and the impact of non-physical forms of aggression on individuals. Unlike hostile aggression, which is overt and typically aimed at causing harm or pain, and instrumental aggression, which is goal-oriented and used to achieve a specific outcome without necessarily intending to harm, relational aggression specifically targets relationships and social standings. Additionally, aggressive but pro-social behavior, while it may imply some degree of aggression, does not align with the definition of covert harm, as it combines aggression with pro-social intentions rather than focusing on relational damage.