Understanding human behavior and the social environment

Explain the role peer group acceptance plays in identity development among children in middle childhood. Also discuss whether peer acceptance is a predictor of successful adjustment in middle childhood.

Peer groups are groups of people made up of a child’s equal [ CITATION Kar19 \l 1033 ]. Peer groups provides an arena for children to learn about themselves, build self-concepts, and learn how to interact with others [ CITATION Kar19 \l 1033 ]. Most children in the middle childhood range are starting to make friends in more complex ways. In peer relationships, children learn how to maintain social interactions, manage conflict, communication, and understanding other’s feelings. According to “Lifespan Development”, children are starting to realize the benefits to friendships[ CITATION Emo \l 1033 ] Peer group acceptance plays a role in identity
development because being accepted by other children is an important part of affirmation and self-esteem In middle childhood. Peer- rejection could cause children who are in the industry vs.

Benson, J. E., & Johnson, M. K. (2009). Adolescent Family Context and Adult Identity

Formation. J Fam Issues , 9.