Whiting and Whiting

Whiting and Whiting

Whiting and Whiting (1975)

Comparison of prosocial behavior in six cultures as a result of childrearing practices

  • This anthropological study was a systematic naturalistic observation of cultural differences in child-rearing practices and the consequence of that on prosocial behavior.
  • The researchers observed children between the ages of 3 and 11 years in six different countries (Kenya, the Philippines, Japan, India, Mexico and the USA) during their daily interactions with other people.
  • Results showed consistent differences in the degree of prosocial behavior in children among the studied cultures. Children from Mexico, and the Philippines generally acted more prosocially than those from Japan, India, and the USA. The most prosocial children were from the most traditional society, in rural Kenya. The most egoistic children came from the most complex modern society, the USA.
  • One important difference was how much children participated in household chores and in the care of younger children. In the most prosocial cultures people tended to live together in extended families, the female role was important, and women’s contribution to the family’s economy was greater. In these cultures women delegated more responsibility to their children. In cultures (e.g. the USA) where children are paid to do household chores or don’t participate at all, the same degree of prosocial behavior was not observed.
  • The results overall indicate that degree of modernization influences prosocial behavior. This was attributed to different child-rearing patterns and cultural dimensions such as individualism and collectivism.
  • According to the researchers the study also shows how different aspects of socioeconomic organization of a culture can promote or inhibit children’s opportunities to acquire specific social behaviors. The findings also emphasize the importance of everyday practices in the promotion of concern for others.