학령기 행동문제의 위험요인과 보호요인으로서의 또래관계

Peer Relationships as Risk and Protective Factors in the Behavior Problems of Elementary School Children

This study examined relationships between peer variables and externalizing behavior problems of 290 4th and 5th grade children in elementary school. The children completed the Friendship Quality Scale and the peer nomination questionnaire. Parents and teachers rated behavior problems of children using the Connors' Rating Scale. Results indicated that rejected children had more behavior problems than popular, average, or neglected children. Socio-emotional supports from a close friend and satisfaction with the friend were negatively related to behavior problems. Behavior problems were mainly predicted by low peer acceptance, and behavior problems of rejected children were negatively and strongly related to socio-emotional supports of a close friend. In conclusion, peer rejection was a risk factor and a friend's support was a protective factor for externalizing behavior problems in 4th and 5th graders.