Child Distributive Behavior and Inhibitory Control in a Private Context

Comportamento Distributivo Infantil e Controle Inibitório em um Contexto Privado

Comportamiento Distributivo Infantil y Control Inhibitorio en un Contexto Privado

Abstract

Several studies have sought to assess the cognitive aspects underlying the sharing of goods. This work aimed to evaluate whether there is a relationship between inhibitory control and distributive behavior in a private context (total anonymity of the distributor). One hundred and thirty-six children aged between three and 12 years participated in a dictatorial game and a standard Stroop task. Age, inhibitory control and distributive behavior were positively correlated, but only age was predictive of sharing. It is suggested that the moral reasoning employed in the distributive context explains this tendency, in which older children, when reflecting on resource sharing, resort to respect for social rules. In contrast, younger children feel that their desire is sufficient to justify the self-centered behavior, even knowing the rules. The results contribute to the field of child development by providing information that allows a better understanding of the role executive functions play in distributive decisions.

Keywords:
moral development; childhood; self-control