Children’s friendships in middle childhood: how number of friends, reciprocity and friendship quality relate to peer and school identification, and general self-worth

Maunder, R. and Monks, C. (2018) Children’s friendships in middle childhood: how number of friends, reciprocity and friendship quality relate to peer and school identification, and general self-worth. British Journal of Developmental Psychology. 0261-510X. (Accepted)

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Item Type:	Article
Abstract:	Children’s friendships are important for well-being and school adjustment, but few studies have examined multiple indices of friendships together in middle childhood. The current study surveyed 7 to 11-year olds (n = 314) about their friendships, best friendships, friendship quality and indices of self-worth, identification with peers and identification with school. Peer relationships were positively related to self-worth, but not identification with peers or school. Best friendship quality moderated the relationship between number of reciprocated friendship nominations and self-worth. Children with a reciprocated best friend had higher friendship quality and peer identification than others. Where best friendship was reciprocated, the relationship with identification with peers was mediated via positive friendship quality. The results suggest that friendship reciprocity is particularly relevant for children’s self-worth and identification with peers. The findings are discussed in relation to the importance of fostering the development of reciprocated friendships.
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology > BF712 Developmental psychology > BF723 Child psychology H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Women > HQ767 Children. Child development
Creators:	Maunder, Rachel and Monks, Claire
Publisher:	British Psychological Society
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes:	Faculties > Faculty of Health & Society > Psychology University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Faculty of Health & Society > Psychology
Date:	20 September 2018
Date Type:	Acceptance
Journal or Publication Title:	British Journal of Developmental Psychology
Language:	English
ISSN:	0261-510X
Status:	Accepted
Refereed:	Yes
URI:	http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/id/eprint/10518

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