Babies may not yet be able to walk or talk, but new research suggests they’re already developing a knack for deception. A study based on interviews with 750 parents indicates that as early as 10 months old, a significant portion of infants are exhibiting rudimentary forms of deceit, such as pretending not to hear instructions, concealing toys, or sneaking forbidden snacks out of sight.
The findings, published in the journal Cognitive Development, challenge previous assumptions about the development of deception, which often positioned it as a more sophisticated skill requiring advanced language and understanding of others’ perspectives. Researchers found that deceptive behaviors evolve rapidly in the first few years of life, building upon earlier, more basic attempts to navigate social interactions and secure desired outcomes.
“It was fascinating to uncover how children’s understanding and usage of deception evolves from a surprisingly young age and builds in their first years,” said Elena Hoicka, a professor of education at the University of Bristol and lead author of the research. The study draws parallels with animal behavior, noting that deception isn’t unique to humans. Chimpanzees, for example, have been observed hiding food from dominant members of their group, and certain bird species employ false alarm calls to distract rivals and gain access to food.
By the age of three, children turn into more adept at fabrication, according to parental reports. The study revealed that half of children identified as deceivers had engaged in a sneaky behavior within the past day. This progression from simple avoidance to more complex forms of deception highlights the developing cognitive abilities of young children, researchers say.
Early Signs of Deception: What Parents Reported
Parents participating in the study, from the UK, US, Australia, and Canada, described a range of deceptive behaviors. Some reported recognizing the first signs of deception as early as eight months. From two years old, deception often manifests as action-based responses – ignoring a parent’s request to tidy up, hiding objects, or denying wrongdoing, even when evidence suggests otherwise (like shaking their head “no” when asked if they ate a chocolate treat).
As children approach age three, their deceptive tactics become more nuanced, involving a greater understanding of language and the mental states of others. Hoicka explained that this can include exaggeration, understatement, or outright fabrication – like blaming a ghost for eating the chocolate. They also commence to withhold information, selectively sharing details to present a favorable narrative, such as admitting to hitting a sibling but omitting their own role in the conflict.
The Evolutionary Roots of Deception
The research suggests that the capacity for deception isn’t a sudden development, but rather an evolutionary trait that emerges gradually. Hoicka noted, “It’s not like the ability to deceive suddenly appears at three or four years out of nowhere.” She added that early forms of deception are often less about intentional lying and more about “getting away with things or getting extra treats.” As a mother of three, Hoicka shared a relatable anecdote: “Hiding under the table or in the bathroom to eat sweets or chocolate is their common ploy.”
Jennifer Saul, a professor of philosophy at the University of Waterloo, Canada, and co-author of the study, emphasized the broader implications of these findings. “Philosophers have long reflected on the morality of human deception, but always focused on adults deceiving one another,” she said. “This study shows just how much complexity gets overlooked by that focus.”
The study’s findings are intended to reassure parents and educators that deception is a normal part of toddler development. Understanding the stages of deceptive behavior can aid adults anticipate and respond to these behaviors in a constructive manner, guiding children toward more honest communication.
What remains to be seen is how these early deceptive behaviors influence social and emotional development in later childhood and adolescence. Further research will be needed to explore the long-term consequences of these early “little lies” and to identify effective strategies for fostering honesty and ethical behavior in young children.
Have you observed similar behaviors in your own children or young relatives? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below. And if you found this article insightful, please share it with other parents and caregivers.
