Cross-cultural patterns in the training of children: an evolutionary perspective

Journal of Comparative Psychology • Vol/Iss. 103 • Published In • Pages: 311-319 •
By Low, Bobbi S.

Abstract

This article offers a behavioral ecological approach to the study of child training practicies. Gender differences in child training are discussed in light of evolutionary theory, and the author suggests training is likely tailored to promote the reproductive success of each gender. Generally, boys are trained to be more aggressive, stronger, and self-reliant; girls are trained to be more hard-working, responsible, obedient, and sexually restrained. Gender differences in child training frequently vary with degree of polygyny and/or social stratification in a society.

Samples

Sample Used Coded Data Comment
Standard Cross Cultural Sample (SCCS)Other ResearchersOdd numbers of the SCCS were sampled.
OtherOther ResearchersBarry et al. (1976) data on childrearing

Hypotheses (6)

HypothesisSupported
Males will be trained to demonstrate more competitive behaviors useful for resource acquisition and control (p. 312).Supported
More polygyny will be associated with training boys to strive more (p. 312).Partially supported
More stratification will be positively associated with males' training to be industrious, and obedient and females' training to be sexually restrained and obedient. Stratification will be negatively associated with males and females' training to be self-reliant (p. 312).Supported
Patrilocality will be positively associated with men's training for obedience (p. 312).Supported
Greater control of resources by women will be negatvely associated with obedience training for females (p. 313).Supported
Larger social group size will be associated with training that reduces intra-group conflict (p. 313).UNKNOWN
Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: Kate Cummings  Amelia Piazza