"Interpersonal Dynamics and Social Networks: The Impact of Conflict, Discipline, and Victimization"

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract/Description

This thematic panel uses social network approaches to explore the far-reaching effects of social dynamics on individuals academic and emotional development, with a focus on how interpersonal conflict, disciplinary actions, and victimization shape peer relationships and institutional outcomes. The first study by Trovato examines the ripple effects of school suspensions, contextualizing it as a form of stigma, demonstrating how vicarious suspension through peer networks negatively impact an individual’s grade point average, high school graduation, and college attendance. The second study by Trovato, Daniel, and Vaughan investigates the role of conflict—particularly related to race and gender—in shaping friendship networks among middle school students. Through an analysis of peer relationships, it reveals how experiences of racial and gender-based conflict contribute to friendship dissolution. The third study by DiBenedetti shifts the focus to Latinx individuals who experience hate crime and bias victimization, exploring the network of help-seeking resources on which they rely. This underscores the importance of interconnected support systems in addressing the needs of victims and facilitating broader access to aid. Together, these studies provide insights into the complex social environments adolescents navigate, emphasizing the intersectionality of race, gender, discipline, and victimization in shaping their academic success and social well-being.

Sub Unit

• Area V. Victimization / 37. Causes and Correlates of Victimization

Individual Presentations

• Academic Fallout: How Vicarious Suspension Influences an Individual’s Grade Point Average, Graduation, and College Attendance - Daniel Trovato, Northeastern University

• Dynamics of Individual Conflict, Friendship Formation, and Social Identity: Exploring the Impact of Individual Conflict Experiences on Friendship Ties across Gender and Race - Oghenerhuru Daniel, Northeastern University; Jada Y. Vaughan, Northeastern University; Daniel Trovato, Northeastern University

• Exploring the Network Structure of Help-seeking Resources Among Latinx Victims of Hate- and Bias-motivated Violence  - Cassie DiBenedetti, Northeastern University

Discussant

• Brandon Craig, Northeastern University