Distributional preferences in adolescent peer networks

A-Tier
Journal: Experimental Economics
Year: 2023
Volume: 26
Issue: 1
Pages: 223-248

Score contribution per author:

0.804 = (α=2.01 / 5 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

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.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:kap:expeco:v:26:y:2023:i:1:d:10.1007_s10683-022-09775-6
Journal Field
Experimental
Author Count
5
Added to Database
2026-01-25