Analysis of risk to children participating in a sociometric task

Fourth and 5th graders (N = 119) were individually interviewed regarding their reactions to completing group-administered, positive and negative peer nomination techniques. Results were consistent with previous findings of no obvious harm; but, additional, unique information regarding children's discussions was identified. For example, 7 children reported that 6 low-status peers were talked about behind their backs. However, these 7 children further reported that, to the best of their knowledge, none of the 6 low-status peers found out about the negative comments. No child reported having hurt feelings or having knowledge of anyone else having hurt feelings. Overall, 17% of the children (n = 20) reported that they were complimented by others; high-status peers were significantly more likely to be complimented. It was determined that the condition of minimal risk of harm, harm not greater than children might encounter in daily life, was not breached Directions for further research are discussed.