Abstract
Enriched environments may moderate the effect of genetic factors on prosocial leadership (gene–environment interaction, G × E). However, positive environmental experiences may also themselves be influenced by a genetic disposition for prosocial leadership (gene–environment correlation, rGE). Relating these processes to friendships, the present study examined (a) whether children with a genetic disposition for prosocial leadership possess a greater number of reciprocal friends (rGE) and (b) whether the number of reciprocal friends interacts with the effect of genetic factors on children’s prosocial leadership (G × E). The sample comprised 275 twin pairs assessed in Grade 1 (mean age 84.7 months). Reciprocal friendship and prosocial leadership behavior were measured via peer nominations. Consistent with rGE, a genetic disposition for prosocial leadership was related to an increased likelihood of friendship. Moreover, consistent with a compensation process, environmental influences played a stronger role than genetic influences in prosocial leadership when children had many friends.
Recommended Citation
Rivizzigno, Alessandra S.; Brendgen, Mara; Feng, Bei; Vitaro, Frank; Dionne, Ginette; Tremblay, Richard E.; and Boivin, Michel
(2014)
"Gene–Environment Interplay Between Number of Friends and Prosocial Leadership Behavior in Children,"
Merrill-Palmer Quarterly: Vol. 60:
Iss.
2, Article 3.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/mpq/vol60/iss2/3