You are some distance from a group of nine-year-old girls. You notice that four of them are in a huddle, and a fifth tries to join. The children turn their backs to her, and then someone turns and says something. She moves away but looks at the group. The one who spoke raises her hand, palm outward, and the child moves quickly away. What can you conclude from this observation?
A) forced separation
B) possibly threats of violence
C) group cohesiveness of those in the huddle
D) leader identification
E) All of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scenario described indicates forced separation as the child is actively excluded from the group. The raised hand and the child's quick departure could imply a threat of violence, even if not physical, it's a form of social aggression. The behavior of the children in the huddle demonstrates group cohesiveness, as they act in unison to exclude another. Lastly, the child who speaks and raises her hand can be identified as a leader or at least someone taking a leadership role in that moment.

You Are Some Distance from a Group of Nine-Year-Old Girls