Academics in psychology examine the negative and positive characteristics and motives of inconsiderate and annoying behaviors and relational transgressions. They discuss variables that influence perceptions of aversiveness and look at people's responses to the repetitive negative social behaviors of others. Behaviors examined include improper and distancing behaviors, such as swearing, excessive reassurance-seeking, and aggression, and behaviors that hurt others, such as teasing, gossip, and betrayals. They look at some positive relational consequences of negative behaviors, and suggest that aversive interpersonal behaviors are related to motives for social control and the protection of valued identities. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)