The psychological functions of preadolescent peer activities.

The psychological functions of preadolescent peer activities were assessed by examining activity-related prescriptions and prescriptions for peer behavior. 91 fifth- and sixth-grade children (48 girls) kept week-long diaries of important peer activities and liked and disliked behaviors performed by peers in the activities. 81 other fifth- and sixth-grade children (40 girls) rated the importance and prevalence of each activity and indicated which of several positive and negative behaviors they would most like or dislike to happen in 10 of the activities. Results indicate that collectively, the activities sampled serve 3 main functions based on their prescriptive and prescriptive behavioral profiles: (a) they provide a context for sociability, enhancement of relationships, and a sense of belonging; (b) they promote concern for achievements and integrity of the self; and (c) they provide opportunities for instruction and learning. Not all activities serve all functions, however, and children may require exposure to a variety of activities to accrue a full range of psychological experiences. The findings also illustrate the potential importance of activity-related information for discerning the meaning and evaluating the effectiveness of social behavior. The advantages of the methodology are discussed.