Longitudinal Development of Peer Social Rejection

摘要

The development of social rejection and isolation in children's peer groups was studied. The results showed a number of behavioral profiles that precede the acquisition of status as rejected, isolated, or popular. Boys who became popular or controversial engaged in cooperative play and social conversations more frequently than did boys who became rejected or isolated. Peer responses to these two behaviors demonstrated they were highly likely to be received positively by peers. Children who became isolated or rejected did attempt interactions with peers, but they attempted aggressive play interactions or obviously inappropriate and non-violating behaviors which were received negatively by peers. Results indicate that children's social engagement strategies and their aggressive acts are highly relevant to the development of peer status.