Children this age become interested in joining gangs, clubs or secret societies. Beginning to try on various identities to discover who they want to associate with. Independence from adults becomes important. Sibling rivalry is common. They enjoy both cooperation and limited competition.
Cooperation is more difficult to learn.
Children who seem withdrawn, depressed or cruel may be having a problem with their emotional development. Common fears include the unknown, failure, death, family problems and non-acceptance. Their concept of right and wrong continues to develop. Their sense of humor further develops during this period. Every time children succeed at something, their view of themselves improves.