De relatie tussen Theory of Mind en prosociaal gedrag bij 3 tot 5-jarigen en de modererende rol van gender

Abstract

Background: Prosocial behavior is an essential aspect of children's social competence. As prosocial behavior is associated with several positive outcomes, like social acceptance and increased well-being, it is important to explore what may be predictors of prosocial behavior. It is theoretically likely that Theory of Mind (ToM) skills can help children to act prosocially. However, previous studies have yielded inconsistent results. Aims: Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the relationship between ToM and prosocial behavior among Dutch children aged 3 to 5 years. Additionally, the study examined whether gender moderated this relationship. In both research questions, age was included as a control variable. Method: 64 Dutch participants (50% girls, Mage = 47.08, SDage = 7.2), ranging from 36 to 59 months, participated in this study. ToM was measured using a translation of the Theory of Mind Scale developed by Wellman en Liu (2004). Prosocial behavior was measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (Goodman, 1997). Results: This study found no significant relationship between ToM and prosocial behavior in children between 3 to 5 years of age, when controlled for age. Age and ToM together accounted for 13% of the variance in prosocial behavior. There also was no significant moderation effect of gender found on this relationship. Discussion: Implications of these findings are explored, as well as possible explanations for a lack of significant results. Recommendations for further research are discussed.