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Young dictators—Speaking about oneself decreases generosity in children from two cultural contexts

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  • Sandra Weltzien
  • Lauren Marsh
  • Patricia Kanngiesser
  • Bruce Hood

Abstract

Sharing of resources is a common feature of human societies. Yet, there is substantial societal variation in children’s generosity, and this variation emerges during middle childhood. Societal differences in self-construal orientation may be one factor influencing the ontogeny of generosity. Here, we examine anonymous Dictator Game sharing in 7-and-8-year-olds from two distinct societies: India and the UK (N = 180). We used self-construal manipulations to investigate whether priming self- or other-focused conversations would differentially influence children’s generosity. There were no differences in generosity between populations. While a significant reduction in generosity was found following self-priming in both societies, other-priming was ineffectual. The findings are discussed in relation to experimental features and the role of anonymity and reputational concerns.

Suggested Citation

  • Sandra Weltzien & Lauren Marsh & Patricia Kanngiesser & Bruce Hood, 2024. "Young dictators—Speaking about oneself decreases generosity in children from two cultural contexts," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 19(3), pages 1-12, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0300200
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300200
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