Understanding the 'Ostrich Effect': When Do We Start Avoiding Helpful Information?

In today's world inundated with information, many adults find comfort in avoiding potentially distressing or challenging data. Psychologists refer to this tendency as the 'Ostrich Effect,' where individuals choose to ignore or steer clear of information that could evoke negative emotions or threaten their self-view.

Research from the University of Chicago has shed light on the developmental roots of this behavior. The study, published in Psychological Science, involved analyzing how children’s attitudes toward information change with age. Led by postdoctoral scholar Radhika Santhanagopalan, the research found that while young children aged 5 and 6 actively seek out information, children between 7 and 10 years old increasingly prefer to avoid it, especially if it triggers discomfort or negative feelings.

Santhanagopalan emphasizes that understanding the emergence of such behaviors requires studying children. The findings suggest that as children grow, they develop strategies to shield themselves from negative emotions by avoiding certain information, a behavior that solidifies into adult patterns. Interestingly, when it comes to learning about their own failures, children tend to remain receptive regardless of age, likely due to the growth mindset instilled by educational environments.

The researchers also explored the concept of moral 'wiggle room,' where children avoid information that could compromise their self-interest or fairness perceptions. For instance, in an experiment involving sticker sharing, older children often chose not to learn about how their actions affected others, thus preserving a sense of innocence while acting in self-interest.

While avoiding negative information can serve psychological comfort, excessive avoidance has downsides, such as reinforced bias and societal polarization. To counteract this tendency, experts recommend reflecting on the reasons behind avoidance and reframing uncomfortable information as valuable and constructive.

Santhanagopalan suggests that cultivating a tolerance for uncertainty and curiosity, much like children do naturally, can help adults manage information better. Embracing some level of ambiguity and fostering curiosity instead of avoidance could promote healthier decision-making and emotional resilience.

This research highlights the importance of early intervention and behavioral awareness in preventing long-term avoidance habits that may hinder personal and societal growth.

Source: Medical Xpress