Models of internalizing outcomes of early rejection

Examined the most appropriate model of the effects of temporary vs consistent experiences, in both sexes, with rejection for both short- and long-term internalizing problems, in a longitudinal study. 95 boys and 99 girls in the 1st–3rd grades, from varied SES were assessed for global social preference by collecting peer sociometric nominations, during the first 2 yrs, based on which Ss were grouped into temporary- and chronic-rejection Ss. In 3rd and 6th yrs, outcome measures to assess internalizing problems were administered to the Ss and to their teachers. Results indicate that for boys the threshold model best represented the stressful effects of rejection. Boys exposed to rejection for 2 consecutive yrs demonstrated both short- and long-term internalizing problems later. For girls, no significant differences were found in this regard.