Cliquiest: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'clique' comes from the French word for 'to click,' suggesting a close-knit group that clicks together.
• Originally used in the 19th century, it initially referred to small, exclusive social groups.
• The suffix '-iest' implies the superlative form, indicating the group with the strongest tendency to exclude others.

Social Psychology

• Research shows that exclusive groups often form in social settings like schools or workplaces as members seek comfort and support.
• People may feel pressured to conform to the norms of a clique, impacting their self-identity.
• Cliques can create an 'in-group' vs. 'out-group' mentality, leading to social division.

Pop Culture

• Films like 'Mean Girls' explore the dynamics of cliques in high school and their implications on friendship and rivalry.
• In music, many genres, including punk and hip-hop, have scenes that often feel exclusive and cliquish among fans.
• Social media has created new forms of cliques, where online communities can both unite and isolate people.

Impact on Development

• Adolescents often rely on cliques during their development for social navigation and finding personal identity.
• Exclusivity in groups can lead to bullying or social anxiety for those not included.
• Positive cliques can provide a sense of belonging, yet detrimental ones may foster negative behaviors.

Literature

• Cliques often feature in coming-of-age novels, symbolizing both friendship and betrayal, as seen in works like 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower'.
• Authors frequently use cliques to represent social dynamics and challenges during teenage years or in specific cultural settings.
• The portrayal of cliques can address broader themes of acceptance and identity in society.