A clique is an exclusive group of people who share common interests, identities, or affinities. Members of a clique typically maintain close personal relationships and demonstrate loyalty to each other, often prioritizing social exclusivity and personal bonds over broader organizational or communal goals. While cliques can form in various settings, such as schools, workplaces, or social communities, they are predominantly recognized for their emphasis on selective membership and cohesive group identity.
Characteristics of a Clique
Exclusivity
Cliques are known for their social exclusivity, which involves selective inclusion and often exclusion of others who do not fit the group’s shared interests or identities.
Shared Interests or Identities
Members typically bond over common interests, such as hobbies, professions, or cultural backgrounds, and maintain a strong sense of group identity.
Close Personal Relationships
Clique members often maintain tight-knit personal relationships characterized by mutual support, loyalty, and frequent social interactions.
Types of Cliques
School Cliques
In educational environments, cliques can influence social dynamics among students, often grouped by interests like sports, academics, arts, or social status.
Workplace Cliques
Within professional settings, cliques may form based on departmental affiliations, job levels, or shared professional interests, impacting workplace culture and collaboration.
Social and Community Cliques
Beyond structured environments, cliques can also be found in social communities, where individuals bond over common interests, cultural backgrounds, or social activities.
Examples and Context
Historical Context
The concept of cliques has historical roots and has been studied extensively in sociology and psychology. Historically, cliques have been observed in various cultures, reflecting the human tendency to form close-knit social groups.
Modern Examples
In contemporary society, cliques can be observed in various forms:
- School Cliques: High school groups such as “jocks,” “nerds,” and “theater kids.”
- Workplace Cliques: Teams or groups within a company that align based on professional roles or social interests.
- Community Cliques: Neighborhood groups or social clubs that gather based on shared hobbies or cultural interests.
Special Considerations
Positive Aspects
- Support Network: Cliques can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.
- Shared Resources: Members often share resources and information, benefiting individual and collective growth.
Negative Aspects
- Exclusivity and Bullying: Cliques can sometimes exhibit exclusionary behaviors, leading to social ostracism or bullying of non-members.
- Limited Perspectives: The insular nature of cliques might limit exposure to diverse perspectives and ideas.
Related Terms
- Faction: A faction is a group within a larger organization that shares common goals or interests, often distinct from the broader group’s objectives.
- In-group and Out-group: In social psychology, an in-group is a group an individual identifies with, while an out-group represents those outside this defined group, often leading to in-group favoritism and potential out-group discrimination.
FAQs
How do cliques form?
Can cliques exist in virtual environments?
How can one deal with exclusion by a clique?
Summary
Cliques are exclusive groups formed based on shared interests, identities, or affinities, known for their close-knit relationships and social exclusivity. While they provide support and a sense of belonging to members, they can also foster exclusivity and social divides. Understanding the dynamics of cliques helps in navigating social relationships and fostering inclusive environments.
References
- Kandel, D.B. (1978). Homophily, Selection, and Socialization in Adolescent Friendships. American Journal of Sociology, 84(2), 427-436.
- Adler, P.A., & Adler, P. (1995). Dynamics of Inclusion and Exclusion in Preadolescent Cliques. Social Psychology Quarterly, 58(3), 145-162.
- Cross, J.E., & Borgatti, S.P. (2000). The Social Network of Cliques. Social Networks, 22(2), 97-122.
