A clique ( AusE, CanE, UK: / ˈkliːk / or US: / ˈklɪk / ), in the social sciences, is a group of individuals who interact with one another and share similar interests. [1] Interacting with cliques is part of normative social development regardless of gender, ethnicity, or popularity.

A clique is an exclusive group of people who spend time together and do not readily allow others to join them. Typically, kids in these groups make it clear to outsiders that not just anyone can join and be part of their group. Another determining factor is that cliques often focus on maintaining their popularity or status. 2