CLASSROOM PEER RELATIONS OF CHILDREN PARTICIPATING IN A PULL-OUT ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

We compared the classroom peer relations of fourth, fifth, and sixth g raders participating in a pull-out enrichment program (Creative Learni ng in a Unique Environment [CLUE]) with all other classmates. Data inc luded peer sociometric assessments, evaluations of friendship relation ships, and peer nominations as aggressors and as victims of aggression . Relative to other classmates, CLUE children (a) were evaluated by pe ers as having greater social acceptability and social competence, (b) demonstrated greater awareness of reciprocity in friendship relationsh ips, and (c) were perceived less often as an aggressor or as a victim of aggression. These children did not have more friends or best friend s than their peers, but they had more valued positions within the peer network. These findings suggest that a pull-out enrichment program ca n be associated with enhanced peer relations in the classroom, an effe ct not evident in the current research literature.