Question

The sociometric technique is used to determine each category relating to peer acceptance (popular, neglected, rejected, controversial, and average). What do you think is a major limitation of this method? Why are some children liked by many and become popular and some disliked by many and become rejected?

Answer 1

A major limitation of the sociometric technique is its high levels of subjectivity based on which accurate measurements of behaviour or personality cannot be made. Although it captures patterns of group interactions, it works well only in small groups and it cannot capture complex social relationships. Some children are liked by many and become popular due to various factors however they are usually perceived as leaders by their peers, with qualities and attributes that a role model should possess. On the other hand, children who are disliked maybe rejected due to being new member of the group, or because of being shy and withdrawn in nature with little inclination to seek friendships. In some cases, belonging to either to a lower or to an upper socio-economic level can also produce a negative impact.