Popularity, individual friendship selection, and specific peer interaction among children

The social interaction of 94 4-5 yr old White preschoolers was observed and scored for the frequency of reinforcing, neutral, and punishing behavior. The peer target of that behavior was specified, and Ss were identified sociometrically as liked or disliked by peers. Consistent with past findings, an S's popularity in the peer group was associated with overall rates of receiving and dispensing reinforcing and neutral acts. The selection of a specific liked peer, however, was not related to that peer's overall social behavior but rather to the specific interaction between that peer and the S. In particular, the interaction between an S and a liked peer was characterized by high rates of reinforcing and neutral acts. Ss' interaction with disliked peers did not differ from that with peers who were neither liked nor disliked. The importance of distinguishing between general interaction patterns affecting sociometric status and specific interaction affecting friendship selection is discussed. (22 ref)