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Retrospective Self-Reported Childhood Experiences in Enriched Environments Uniquely Predict Prosocial Behavior and
Thomas G McCauley1,2, Michael E McCullough1,2
1Department of Psychology, 8784University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
Summary
Childhood
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Past research on childhood environments and adult prosocial behavior focused on adverse conditions.
- The influence of enriched childhood environments on adult prosociality remains under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between enriched childhood environments and adult prosocial behavior.
- To differentiate the impact of enriched versus adverse childhood experiences.
Main Methods:
- Two cross-sectional studies involving adult participants (N=1,084 and N=2,208).
- Retrospective recall of childhood environmental quality using an adapted measure.
- Assessment of adult prosocial traits including agreeableness, altruism, and empathy.
Main Results:
- Enriched childhood experiences were distinct from adverse experiences.
- Enriched childhood environments positively correlated with adult prosocial traits and behaviors.
- Associations remained significant after controlling for adversity, socioeconomic status, sex, and age.
Conclusions:
- Enriched childhood environments are linked to increased adult prosociality.
- Shared genetic factors may partially explain the relationship between enrichment and prosociality.
- Findings highlight the importance of positive childhood experiences for shaping adult moral behavior.
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