| The current study examined the homophilic processes of selection and socialization in same-sex adolescent friendships across a 3-year period. The framework of the actor-partner interdependence model for distinguishable dyads was the main analytic technique, an improvement over previous analysis methods which often did not allow for simultaneous exploration of selection and socialization. Within the friendships, adolescents were distinguished based on their general peer acceptance levels, and similarity was assessed for three behaviors: deviant behavior, depression, and achievement motivation. Results showed evidence of both selection and socialization for deviant behavior and achievement motivation, but not for depression. Furthermore, partner influence paths suggested that more accepted friends typically exerted more influence on less accepted friends. Gender also moderated results, with girls tending to have stronger effects than boys. |
