Shouldering childhood: early behavioural traits and discrimination concerns
Abstract
Abstract This study examines how childhood emotions, traits, and behaviours influence concerns about gender inequality and racism in young adulthood. Drawing on the social psychology and social science literature, it examines whether childhood behavioural traits measured by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) influence concerns about discrimination. Using the Growing Up in Ireland longitudinal dataset, the study shows that, among native males, internalizing behaviours in childhood (such as loneliness and frequent worry) correlate positively with later concerns about discrimination, while externalizing behaviours (such as strong temperament and impulsivity) show a negative correlation. Finally, native males with stronger prosocial traits are more concerned about racism. However, for females and foreigners—social groups that are typically discriminated against—these associations are not statistically significant. The results suggest that childhood behavioural traits shape political attitudes before political preferences crystallize and underscore the importance of understanding the developmental origins of discrimination concerns.
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Record history
| When | Event | Field | Old | New |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026-06-18 19:37:53.011249+00:00 | identifier_assigned | DSEID | DSEID-001-2683971 |