The Moderating Role of Clique Stratification and Individual Centrality on Clique Socialization of Overt and Relational Aggression
Abstract
This study assessed the roles of clique stratification (hierarchical organization) and within-clique centrality (status) in clique socialization of overt and relational aggression over six months. Stratification was expected to increase clique socialization of aggression due to clear expectations for behaviour. For overt aggression, high- and low-central individuals were expected to be especially sensitive to stratification effects. Data were collected from 1,033 students (Mage = 11.59, SD = 1.37, 444 boys, 580 girls) in the fall and spring of an academic year. Aggression was assessed via peer nominations. Cliques and individual centrality were identified using the Social Cognitive Map. Multilevel modeling indicated that clique stratification magnified clique socialization of relational aggression, regardless of individual status. However, only high-central members of stratified overtly aggressive cliques increased in overt aggression over time; aggression of low-central members decreased. These results suggest that although stratification may motivate adoption of clique-valued aggressive behaviour, actual behavioural adoption may depend on children’s aggressive competencies.