Citation

Goldweber A, Cauffman E, Cillessen AH. J. Res. Adolesc. 2014; 24(4): 720-733.

Affiliation

Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/jora.12078

PMID

25598649

Abstract

Peers are a powerful socializing force, especially during adolescence. Whether peer status holds the same meaning, correlates, and consequences for female offenders remains unknown. Using a peer nomination technique in a sample of incarcerated females (N = 86, age 15-24 years), our study is the first to examine the association between peer status and psychopathology in a correctional facility.

RESULTS indicated that a key indicator of likeability was prosocial behavior; popularity was related to leadership; and social impact was associated with aggression. Popularity might serve as a buffer against, and social impact as a risk factor for, psychosocial problems.

FINDINGS shed light on peer status as a mechanism underpinning female offenders' problem behaviors and an entry point for targeted interventions.

Language: en