This paper presents findings from a preliminary cross-cultural survey
of adult human female aggression. Cases of female-initiated aggres
sion, ranging from verbal abuse to murder, are found in all regions of
the world. Female aggression is largely directed against other females
and generally involves little injury. Co-wives and other rivals in sex and
marriage are the most common victims. Husbands are the most
common male targets. Female aggression is often a means of competing
for men or subsistence products, but it may also be a means of defense.
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