Theory of Mind and Machiavellianism as Factors of Intragroup Relations in Adolescence

Abstract

Objective. Analysis of differences in social cognition skills (theory of mind) and Machiavellianism in adolescents with different levels of popularity and preference among peers.
Background. Despite the possible consensus on the positive relationship of high social cognition skills and successful socialization, it remains important to study how theory of mind and manipulative behavior are involved in the popularity and social preferences of adolescents.
Study design. The paper studied the differences in the theory of mind and Machiavellianism in adolescents with different levels of popularity and social preference in the peer group. Statistical differences were tested using non-parametric differences tests.
Participants. 166 students (grades 6–8) from schools in the Moscow region. Age from 13 to 14 years (M = 13,39; SD = 0,49), including 90 girls (54,2%).
Measurements. Theory of mind was assessed using the "Reading the Mind in the Eyes" test and tasks for understanding false believes of a higher order. The Russian-language version of the Mach scale is IV. Sociometric method.
Results. Adolescents choose peers with high social cognition skills as friends. Machiavellianism plays into the evaluation of popularity and social preference by peers. Adolescents with a higher level of Machiavellianism are rated by their peers as more popular and preferred for communication.
Conclusions. Popular teens and teens chosen to socialize differ in social cognition and machiavellian skills.