Prosocial development across childhood

Prosocial behavior is essential for a functioning society. Although studies show an early onset of prosocial behaviors, there is no
comprehensive theory on its development and underlying mechanisms. The visit to Dr Dunfield’s lab, which will be made possible with the help of the GRA, is embedded in a superordinate research project with the goal to decipher the mechanisms of early prosociality in preschool children. This project examines the prosocial tendencies of three- to seven-year-old children in terms of actual behavior, underlying norms, and empathic concern. In addition, a number of cognitive and motivational factors that are theorized to predict prosociality will be assessed. At the end of the visit, the interns hope to identify key influences that account for interindividual differences in the performance of prosocial actions. Improving the current understanding of the development of prosociality will benefit both basic research and society at large by providing a starting point for deriving interventions to promote cooperative behavior.

Faculty Supervisor:

Kristen Ann Dunfield

Student:

Partner:

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Education

University:

Concordia University

Program: