Social network analysis applied to children : cooperation games versus cooperation-opposition games

Abstract

In order to study the effect of cooperative and opposition games in children interactions, 10 preschool children (5 to 6 year olds) were monitored over a 1-month period: the interactions between peers were quantified and analyzed in different games, through Social Network Analysis. Results suggest a significant correlation between a cooperative environment and a more connected and balanced passing network, less dependent on a given player, more focused on the goal at task. This research indicates that a cooperative environment can optimize and enhance the interactions between children, creating a stronger, more functional and more connected network.