The anatomy of teenage cliques: Communication behavior at the 2008 Kansas State Fair and in popular media

Abstract

Assumptions are often made about teenagers, and how they interact with one another within groups. These stereotypes are influenced largely by how teenagers are portrayed in the media and popular culture, and are indicative of how teenagers are viewed and characterized by society [1]. This paper reports on a grounded observational study conducted at the 2008 Kansas State Fair. The researcher observed verbal and nonverbal teen relationship behavior within the selfcontained, unrestricted context of the Freak Out ride, where there was minimal presence of parents, teachers, and older authority figures. This context was chosen because it was designed to appeal to teenage participants through the use of popular music, young, attractive carnival workers, targeted games, and daring rides. Comparisons and contrasts will be made between the teenage clique and group relationships observed at the Kansas State Fair, and teenage clique representations in popular media, specifically TV shows and movies. Findings from this study will also be applied to academic research on teenage friendships, clique behaviors and stereotypes.