Children’s perceptions and representations of self–other overlap with peers

Self–other overlap is a multi-dimensional construct consisting of Perceived Closeness (claimed similarity with a target other) and Overlapping Representations (cognitive confusion or merging of self and other). However, little is known about the characterization of these dimensions through early to middle childhood. The present work introduced several adapted measures for investigating the early development of these two self–other overlap dimensions. Five- to 6-year-old children (n = 45) and 7- to 8-year-old children (n = 45) completed measures of these dimensions of overlap between themselves and two target others: a best friend and an acquaintance. Children in both age groups had higher Perceived Closeness for a best friend than an acquaintance, but this was more pronounced with the older children. In addition, younger children had higher Overlapping Representations between self and others than older children. These patterns are discussed in terms of social development and trait understanding.