Cliques

Cliques are small, cohesive groups within a larger social setting, distinguished by close interpersonal ties, shared interests or values, and exclusive membership. They are common in schools but also appear in workplaces, neighborhoods, and online communities. A typical clique includes a few to about a dozen members, with a clear group identity reinforced by routines, norms, and regular interaction.

Formation and structure often arise from existing friendship networks, shared activities, or geographical proximity. Students in schools, for example, may cluster by interests or background. Members recruit newcomers who fit the group’s norms, while others may be left on the periphery. Boundaries are maintained through inside jokes, common activities, and consistent patterns of communication. In many cliques, there is a social hierarchy with more influential members shaping norms and approval processes.

Dynamics and membership influence social experience. Being part of a clique can provide companionship, validation, and social support. At the same time, cliques can generate gatekeeping, social comparison, and exclusion of outsiders, which may lead to tension, bullying, or anxiety for non-members. The impact of a clique often depends on how inclusive its norms are and how power is distributed within and across groups.

Contexts and research indicate that cliques are not limited to adolescence. They appear in workplaces, clubs, and online communities and affect group dynamics, information sharing, and reputations. Researchers view cliques as a facet of social structure and peer influence, noting that outcomes vary with norms, inclusivity, and the broader social environment.