Characteristics and Homogeneity of Early Adolescent Friendship Groups: A Comparison of Male and Female Clique and Nonclique Members

Abstract

The goals of this study were to examine gender differences in the adaptive and maladaptive characteristics of clique membership and in clique homogeneity. We compared the characteristics of clique members with liaisons, dyads, and isolates across 3 domains: peer relationships, problem behaviors, and school adjustment. Our sample consisted of 499 sixth and seventh graders (53% 6th graders, 51% girls, 49% Non-Hispanic White, 26% Hispanic, 22% African American). A friendship nomination questionnaire was used to differentiate the friendship groups and isolates based on patterns of reciprocated close friendship nominations. Consistent with past research, our results indicated that isolation from school-based friends is a marker of maladjustment for both boys and girls. For girls, being a clique member or a liaison was associated with adaptive outcomes in the domains of peer relationships, behavior problems, and school adjustment. In contrast, friendship group membership made little contribution to explaining differences in boys' characteristics. Homogeneity among clique members was explored and the implications of the findings were discussed.