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Handedness and digit ratio predict overconfidence in cognitive and motor skill tasks in a sample of preschoolers

Author

Listed:
  • Sergio Da Silva

    (Federal University of Santa Catarina)

  • Bruno Moreira

    (Federal Institute of Minas Gerais)

  • Newton Da Costa Jr

    (Federal University of Santa Catarina)

Abstract

In a sample of 141 preschoolers, ages 4 to 6, we find children display overconfidence in cognitive and motor skill tasks, a result that replicates that of adults. Both set of findings suggest the bias may not be learned behavior. Moreover, we find right-handed children to display more overconfidence in the cognitive task, whereas low digit-ratio children show more overconfidence in fine and gross motor skill tasks. Handedness polymorphism has been linked to neurological differences, and in literature low digit ratios are commonly associated with high fetal testosterone.

Suggested Citation

  • Sergio Da Silva & Bruno Moreira & Newton Da Costa Jr, 2015. "Handedness and digit ratio predict overconfidence in cognitive and motor skill tasks in a sample of preschoolers," Economics Bulletin, AccessEcon, vol. 35(2), pages 1087-1097.
    • Handle: RePEc:ebl:ecbull:eb-15-00220
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Neyse, Levent & Bosworth, Steven & Ring, Patrick & Schmidt, Ulrich, 2016. "Overconfidence, Incentives and Digit Ratio," Open Access Publications from Kiel Institute for the World Economy 130145, Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW Kiel).
    3. da Silva, Eduardo Borges & Silva, Thiago Christiano & Constantino, Michel & Amancio, Diego Raphael & Tabak, Benjamin Miranda, 2020. "Overconfidence and the 2D:4D ratio," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Finance, Elsevier, vol. 25(C).

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    Keywords

    overconfidence; preschool children; handedness polymorphism; 2D:4D digit ratio;
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    JEL classification:

    • D0 - Microeconomics - - General

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