Social competence and peer relationships

Question 1

Social competence

Answer 1

• complex concept involving social, emotional, cognitive and behavioural skills
• foundation on which ability to interact with others is built

Question 2

Peer groups

Answer 2

comprised of children of a similar age, background, social status and interests

• this primary social group can influence several behaviours and beliefs
• children look to join peer groups that accept them, even if they are involved in negative activities disapproved of by parents

Question 3

Peer acceptance

Answer 3

The extent to which a child is viewed by peers as a worthy and likeable companion
This is assessed using sociometric techniques

Question 4

Popularity

Answer 4

• does not mean the same as having large numbers of friends

- liked by many, disliked by few

Question 5

Rejected children

Answer 5

-disliked by many, liked by few

Question 6

Neglected children

Answer 6

-neither liked nor disliked

Question 7

Controversial children

Answer 7

liked by many but also disliked by many

Question 8

Average status of acceptance

Answer 8

nearly 1/3 of the class- liked or disliked by a moderate number of peers

Question 9

Popular children

Answer 9

• respond positively in unfamiliar environments
• initiate interaction in new social groups
• comment constructively in groups
• blend smoothly with new peers
• pleasant temperament
• academic skills
• display ease when interacting with opposite gender