Peer-reviewed article
Development of theory of mind: importance of nurturance
Anagha Pullangotte, Mangadu Paramasivam Ganesh ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This study examines how parental care affects theory of mind (ToM) development in Indian children, comparing those in institutional care, boarding schools, and with parents. The research found that parental care significantly influences ToM development, and that the quality of care received mediates this relationship. Children in Child Welfare Department institutions reported experiencing harsher physical punishment than other groups. The findings highlight the need for stronger legal and psychological support for vulnerable children in institutional and boarding settings.
Key points
- Parental care has a significant impact on theory of mind development among children
- The type of care received mediates the relationship between parental care and ToM development
- Children in institutions run by the Child Welfare Department reported receiving harsher physical punishment from their parents compared to the other two groups
- The study compares three groups: children in institutional care, children in boarding schools, and children living with parents
- Findings are situated in the Indian context and address the existing child care system
Limitations
The study uses an ex post facto design without a randomised control group, relying on self-reported data about past care and abuse experiences, which limits causal inference. The study does not provide details on sample sizes, effect sizes, or the geographic representativeness of the Indian sample.
Abstract
Purpose Theory of mind (ToM) is essential in understanding and predicting human behaviour. Parenting plays a significant role in the overall cognitive development of children. This study aims to understand the development of ToM among children in need of care and protection and then to compare the data with children living under parental care and children living in boarding schools. Further, it explores the extent of physical abuse experienced by children in the study and their relation to the development of ToM. Design/methodology/approach ToM Test developed by Muris et al. (1999) was used to measure ToM. Childhood Experience of Care and Abuse Questionnaire was used to understand the children’s relationship with parents and experience of physical abuse. The study used an ex post facto design with a purposive sampling method. Findings Findings suggest a significant impact of parental care on the ToM among children. Also, the type of care received mediated the relationship between parental care and the development of ToM. Finally, children living in institutions run by the Child Welfare Department reported that they have received harsher physical punishment from their parents than the other two groups of children. Research limitations/implications Findings are a significant theoretical contribution to the ToM development in children, especially in the Indian context. Social implications Findings demand more legal and psychological support to vulnerable children living in institutions run by the Child Welfare Department and boarding schools. Originality/value The study explores care and abuse from the child’s perspective. Findings are of value to the existing child care system in India.