This review considers risk factors that have been found to be associated with relational aggression. The evidence for these risk factors is examined, and where findings are mixed or ambiguous, possible reasons for this are explored. Existing ways of understanding relational aggression and risk are evaluated in light of the evidence reviewed. It is argued that current models have provided valuable insights into relational aggression but that new approaches are needed to reveal future avenues for investigation. A developmental psychopathology framework is suggested as one perspective which would allow creation of a coherent model of risk and which draws attention to important areas for future research.