The reward value of peers. A variable influencing the efficacy of filmed modeling in modifying social isolation in preschoolers.
Sixteen socially isolate preschoolers were classified as peer- or non-peer-oriented on the basis of their responses to a test devised to measure the reward value of peers. Half of the subjects in each classification were assigned to a modeling treatment and viewed a film depicting appropriate social behavior in the nursery school; half served as controls and saw an animal film. Peer-oriented modeling film subjects increased significantly more in their peer social interactions at posttest and follow-up assessments than did the non-peer-oriented modeling group. In addition, both peer-oriented and non-peer-oriented modeling groups were significantly higher on peer interaction than the control groups. Alternative and supplemental procedures for increasing isolate preschoolers' social interaction are discussed.
D001521:Behavior Therapy; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007100:Imitative Behavior; D008297:Male; D009040:Motion Pictures; D010379:Peer Group; D012056:Reinforcement, Social; D012919:Social Behavior; D012934:Social Isolation