Distributional preferences in adolescent peer networks

Yonas Alem (), Martin Kocher, Simon Schürz (), Fredrik Carlsson and Mikael Lindahl
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Yonas Alem: University of Gothenburg
Simon Schürz: Federal Statistical Office Germany

Experimental Economics, 2023, vol. 26, issue 1, No 8, 223-248

Abstract: Abstract We study distributional preferences in adolescent peer networks. Using incentivized choices between allocations for themselves and a passive agent, children are classified into efficiency-loving, inequality-loving, inequality-averse, and spiteful types. We find that pairs of students who report a friendship link are more likely to exhibit the same preference type than other students who attend the same school. The relation between types is almost completely driven by inequality-loving and spiteful types. The role of peer networks in explaining distributional preferences goes beyond network composition effects. A low rank in academic performance and a central position within the network relate positively to a higher likelihood of being classified as spiteful. Hence, social hierarchies seem to be correlated with distributional preference types.

Keywords: Social preferences; Peers; Networks; Preference transmission (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: C92 D63 I25 O15 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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Working Paper: Distributional Preferences in Adolescent Peer Networks (2022)
Working Paper: Distributional Preferences in Adolescent Peer Networks (2020)
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DOI: 10.1007/s10683-022-09775-6

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