Early Adolescent Perceptions of Informal Groups in a Middle School

Thirty-five young adolescents were asked to identify and describe informal groups in their urban middle school. Further, they were requested to rank order the groups on a like/dislike continuum, and to give opinions as to how parents and teachers might rate the groups. Twelve groups, a higher number than in previous studies, were identified and portrayed in colorful language influenced by rock music and videos. Clothing and appearance, relationships with parents, emotions, school grades, and fighting/being picked on were categories most referred to in the descriptions. Subjects liked best those groups who had solid relationships with peers and parents ("Good Friends" and "Christians"), while disliking those who exhibited bizarre or anti-social behavior ("Nerds," "Potheads," and "Bullies"). Perceived adult ratings generally corresponded to those of the subjects except that "Nerds" and "Goody-goodies," viewed as overly conforming to adult expectations, were rated higher. The study reveals much about the subjects' own values, attitudes, and concerns, as well as the societal influences that affect them. Implications for middle school curriculum and organizational structure are discussed.