Chapter 4: Problem 4

Think Critically Why do adolescents form cliques? Do you think cliques serve a positive or negative purpose? Explain your answers.

Short Answer

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Adolescents form cliques for a variety of sociological and psychological reasons like search for identity, social reinforcement, security, and so on. The implications of these cliques can be both positive -providing a sense of belonging and self-esteem, and negative -limiting social experiences, promoting exclusion and reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Their overall impact can be viewed differently based on individual experiences and perspectives. It is important to ensure that the negative aspects are managed effectively.

Step by step solution

Understand Cliques

Just to understand where we are starting from, a ‘clique’ is a small close-knit group of people who share common interests. They often exclude others who are not 'like them'. Understanding this definition is key.

Identify the Reasons

Next, think about why adolescents might form cliques. Adolescents might form cliques as a way to navigate the challenging social environment of middle and high school. Common reasons are the need for belonging, fear of being left out, affirmation of social identity, protection from social anxieties and bullying.

Assess Positives and Negatives

Then, consider both the positive and negative aspects of cliques. On the positive side, cliques can provide a sense of belonging, promote self-esteem and create a sense of safety and validation. On the negative side, they can limit social experiences, reinforce stereotypes, promote exclusion and marginalization, and create an unhealthy pressure to conform.

Conclude

Lastly, based on your assessment in Step 3, make a personal judgement on whether cliques in adolescence serve a positive or negative purpose.

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Think Critically Why do adolescents form cliques? Do you think cliques serve a positive or negative purpose? Explain your answers.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand Cliques

Identify the Reasons

Assess Positives and Negatives

Conclude

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