Chapter 8: A World Of Their Own

Chapter 8: Peers – A World of Their Own

Q: How are children's peer interactions different from interactions with adults?
A: Peer interactions are briefer, freer, and more equal, which promotes social competence.

Q: How do infants typically interact with peers?
A: Through vocalizing and touching.

Q: What are major achievements in toddler peer interactions?
A: Sharing meaning and mutual pretend play.

Q: What trend is seen in children’s play partner preferences?
A: They increasingly prefer same-gender peers.

Q: What role do peers play as socializers?
A: They model behavior, reinforce norms, and provide belonging and comparison.

Q: How is peer status assessed?
A: With sociometric techniques—peer nominations and ratings of likability.

Q: What defines popular children?
A: Prosocial behavior and setting group norms.

Q: What are traits of nonaggressive-rejected children?
A: Withdrawn and lacking social skills.

Q: How can rejected children improve their social skills?
A: With coaching from parents, researchers, and support from peers.

Q: How do peer friendships change with age?
A: Goals shift; friends share more and resolve conflicts better over time.