Unethical behavior in children

Abstract

Extensive research has established that many adults have a preference for honesty, contrary to the standard economic assumption. In recent years, a burgeoning literature has emerged to examine how this preference forms and develops in children. This chapter presents an overview of this literature within the realm of behavioral economics. It begins with a review of studies investigating the most important determinants of truth-telling preferences. The chapter then discusses potential policy interventions aimed at promoting honesty from a young age, and concludes by outlining avenues for future research.

Keywords: Unethical behavior, Dishonesty, Children, Behavioral Economics, Experimental Economics