Heterogeneity of peer-rejected boys: aggressive and nonaggressive subtypes.
Cluster analyses were employed in 2 studies to explore the possibility that discernible subtypes exist within the population of peer-rejected boys. In Study 1, 41 rejected 9- and 10-year-old boys were identified using nomination sociometrics. 8 teacher rating, behavior observation, and social problem solving interview measures were entered into the analysis. In Study 2, 48 9-, 10-, and 11-year-old rejected boys were identified using rating sociometrics. 9 teacher rating and peer rating measures were entered into the cluster analysis. 2 large clusters emerged in each of the 2 samples. Consistent patterns were seen across both studies when children within each cluster were compared with each other and with those in a popular comparison group. Boys in one cluster exhibited high aggression, low self-control, behavior problems, and withdrawn behavior. Boys in the other cluster exhibited withdrawal but did not obtain elevated scores on measures of aggression, behavior problems, or self-control. Findings of rejected-child heterogeneity have significant implications for the design of treatment programs and further research on peer relationship difficulties of children.
French
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Department of Counseling Psychology, Lewis and Clark College, Portland, OR 97219.
D000374:Aggression / Q000523:psychology*; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D007175:Impulsive Behavior / Q000523:psychology; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D010379:Peer Group; D012059:Rejection, Psychology; D012928:Social Desirability; D012934:Social Isolation