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Selectivity in early prosocial behavior
Valerie A Kuhlmeier1, Kristen A Dunfield2, Amy C O'Neill1
1Department of Psychology, Queen's University Kingston, ON, Canada.
Frontiers in Psychology
|August 15, 2014
Summary
The evolution of prosocial behavior is explained by selective partner choice, where individuals benefit from choosing who receives their altruistic acts. This strategy is evident even in early childhood prosocial development.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary psychology
- Developmental psychology
- Behavioral economics
Background:
- Prosocial behavior, involving resource expenditure for others, presents an evolutionary puzzle.
- Reciprocity is a key factor in evolutionary models of prosociality.
- Selective allocation of prosocial behavior can enhance reciprocal benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the "partner choice" model of prosocial behavior.
- To examine the role of selective partner choice in early human prosocial development.
- To provide evidence for selective partner choice in preschool-aged children.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of evolutionary models of prosociality.
- Analysis of existing research on preschooler prosocial behavior.
- Theoretical argumentation for the partner choice model in early development.
Main Results:
- The partner choice model offers a framework for understanding the evolution of prosociality.
- Preschoolers demonstrate selective prosocial behavior, indicating early partner choice.
- Early prosocial acts are influenced by the potential for future reciprocal benefits.
Conclusions:
- Selective partner choice is a crucial mechanism in the evolution and development of prosocial behavior.
- Understanding early prosocial development through the lens of partner choice provides insights into human cooperation.
- Further research should explore the nuances of partner selection in young children.
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