CHILDREN AND THEIR PERCEPTIONS OF THE SOCIAL SELF: THE EFFECTS OF SHYNESS ON ACCURACY OF PERCEPTIONS OF SOCIAL AGENCY

This study investigated the degree to which shyness is associated with the accuracy of children’s self-perceptions of social agency. Social agency was assessed via a child’s social power and influence among peers. Increased shyness was hypothesized to be associated with more negative self- and peer-perceptions of social agency. Effects of gender, racial status, and sociability were also investigated. Participants included 360 fourth and fifth grade students who rated their own levels of social power and influence among peers. A paired-comparison procedure was used to assess peer perceptions of children’s social power and influence within their classroom. Teachers rated participants’ shyness and sociability. Results indicated increased shyness was associated with lower self- and peer-perceptions of social power and influence. The discrepancy between self and peer perceptions was not associated with shyness, suggesting shy children’s negative self-perceptions of social agency are accurate and likely reflect actual skill deficits. Implications for are discussed.