Children's interpersonal perceptions as a function of sociometric and peer-perceived popularity

This study extends previous research on the distinction between sociometric popularity and peer-perceived popularity among middle school children. The accuracy and consensus of children's perceptions regarding popularity were examined. A sample of 135 4th- and 5th-grade children (81 girls and 54 boy s) answered questions about whom they liked, whom they disliked, who they b elieved was popular, and who they believed was unpopular in their class. Co nsistent with past research, results showed a discrepancy between classific ations based on sociometric popularity and those based on peer-perceived po pularity. Furthermore, girls demonstrated somewhat higher levels of accurac y than boys in identifying who was perceived as popular or unpopular by the class, and unpopular children evidenced less consensus with the rest of th e class in whom they liked and disliked. Results are discussed in terms of the predictive utility of the alternative form of classification based on c hildren's perceived status rather than sociometric status in the group.