The role of the peer group in the life of school-age children is ...

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The role of the peer group in the life of school-age children is that it:
 
  a. Gives them an opportunity to learn dominance and hostility.
  b. Allows them to remain dependent on their parents for a longer time.
  c. Decreases their need to learn appropriate sex roles.
  d. Provides them with security as they gain independence from their parents.

Question 2

An 8-year-old girl tells the nurse that she has cancer because God is punishing her for being bad. She shares her concern that, if she dies, she will go to hell. The nurse should interpret this as being:
 
  a. A belief common at this age.
  b. A belief that forms the basis for most religions.
  c. Suggestive of excessive family pressure.
  d. Suggestive of a failure to develop a conscience.

[sailorcrescent]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Peer-group identification is an important factor in gaining independence from parents. Through peer relationships, children learn ways to deal with dominance and hostility. They also learn how to relate to people in positions of leadership and authority and explore ideas and the physical environment. Peer-group identification helps in gaining independence rather than remaining dependent. A child's concept of appropriate sex roles is influenced by relationships with peers.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Children at this age may view illness or injury as a punishment for a real or imagined mystique. The belief in divine punishment is common at this age.