Self-awarenesss and transgression in children: Two field studies

• Published in: Journal of personality and social psychology 1979-10, Vol.37 (10), p.1835-1846
• Main Authors: Beaman, Arthur L, Klentz, Bonnel, Diener, Edward, Svanum, Soren
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0022-3514; 1939-1315
• DOI: 10.1037/0022-3514.37.10.1835

Two field studies explored the relationship between self-awareness and transgressive behavior. 363 Halloween trick-or-treaters (children) were instructed to take only 1 candy. Self-awareness induced by the presence of a mirror placed behind the candy bowl decreased transgression rates for Ss who had been individuated by asking them their name and address but did not affect the behavior of Ss left anonymous. Self-awareness influenced older but not younger Ss. Naturally occurring standards instituted by the behavior of the 1st child to approach the candy bowl in each group were shown to interact with the experimenter's verbally stated standard. The behavior of 349 children in the 2nd study replicated the findings of the 1st study. Additionally, when no standard was stated by the experimenter, Ss took more candy when not self-aware than when self-aware. (12 ref)