The social ecology of early childhood: Preschool social support networks and social acceptance

Author(s): Levitt, M. J.

Journal/Book: Soc Dev. 1997; 6: 108 Cowley Rd, Oxford, Oxon, England OX4 1JF. Blackwell Publ Ltd. 292-306.

Abstract: The focus of this study was on the social networks of preschool children and on the interface between network characteristics and the child's acceptance by peers and teachers. Fifty-six children and their mothers were interviewed about the child's social support network. Social acceptance measures included peer sociometric ratings and teacher ratings of child preference and relationship quality. Frequency of contact with mother-nominated child network members was a determining factors in the concordance of mother and child reports. From the child's perspective, social acceptance was related to the presence and supportiveness of siblings and extended kin. Mother reports were less predictive, with only one significant association between parental support and teacher preference. In general, the children's perceptions regarding the structure and function of their social networks were found to be reliable and to relate meaningfully to social acceptance in the preschool domain.

Note: Article Franco N, Barry Univ, Sch Adult & Continuing Educ, Miami Shores,FL 33161 USA

Keyword(s): preschool; social support networks; peer acceptance; teacher-child relationship; PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS; PERCEPTIONS; CHILDREN

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