Distinctions between sociometric status groups : internalizing difficulties

Theoretical conceptualizations of internalizing difficulties, particularly depression, suggest that there is a relationship between social relationships and internalizing difficulties. The present study examined one important social relationship in preadolescence--peer relationships--and its association with internalizing difficulties. Seven sociometric status groups or subgroups were identified, and multiple indices of internalizing difficulties were assessed, including depressed mood, hopelessness, loneliness, fear of negative evaluation, social avoidance and distress, and negative self-worth. Fourth and fifth graders participated in group sociometric testing (conducted in three data collection waves at various southeastern elementary schools), and, from this sample, children who satisfied the criteria for one of seven sociometric status groups participated. These children (n= 1092) were mailed questionnaire packets, completed them at home, and then returned them via mail (n = 251). Results indicate different means for each sociometric status group or subgroup across the measures of internalizing difficulties. Internalizing difficulties were particularly pronounced for the rejected-submissive and neglected status groups