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The Determinants of Strategic Thinking in Preschool Children

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  • Brocas, Isabelle
  • Carrillo, Juan

Abstract

Strategic thinking is an essential component of rational decision-making. However, little is known about its developmental aspects. Here we show that preschoolers can reason strategically in simple individual decisions that require to anticipate a limited number of future decisions. This ability is transferred only partially to solve more complex individual decision problems or to eciently interact with others. This ability is also more developed among older children in the classroom. The results indicate that while preschoolers potentially have the capacity to think strategically, it does not always translate into acting strategically.

Suggested Citation

  • Brocas, Isabelle & Carrillo, Juan, 2017. "The Determinants of Strategic Thinking in Preschool Children," CEPR Discussion Papers 12253, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:12253
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    8. Brosig-Koch, Jeannette & Heinrich, Timo & Helbach, Christoph, 2012. "Exploring the Capability to Backward Induct – An Experimental Study with Children and Young Adults," Ruhr Economic Papers 360, RWI - Leibniz-Institut für Wirtschaftsforschung, Ruhr-University Bochum, TU Dortmund University, University of Duisburg-Essen.
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    Cited by:

    1. Brocas, Isabelle & Carrillo, Juan D., 2020. "Iterative dominance in young children: Experimental evidence in simple two-person games," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 179(C), pages 623-637.
    2. Charness, Gary & List, John A. & Rustichini, Aldo & Samek, Anya & Van De Ven, Jeroen, 2019. "Theory of mind among disadvantaged children: Evidence from a field experiment," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 166(C), pages 174-194.
    3. Maggioni, Mario A. & Rossignoli, Domenico, 2020. "Clever little lies: Math performance and cheating in primary schools in Congo," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 172(C), pages 380-400.
    4. Henning Hermes & Daniel Schunk, 2022. "If you could read my mind–an experimental beauty-contest game with children," Experimental Economics, Springer;Economic Science Association, vol. 25(1), pages 229-253, February.

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