Researchers Identify When Information Avoidance Begins in Childhood

Medical Xpress reported on September 26, 2025, that researchers have pinpointed the age when humans begin to actively avoid useful information, a cognitive bias known as the "Ostrich Effect." A study published in Psychological Science found this behavior can start in children as young as six years old. The research showed a clear developmental shift; while younger children are often intensely curious, older children may start to avoid information to protect their emotions or self-image. This avoidance is an active decision to turn away from readily available and relevant information.

reddit.com reported, The tendency to ignore potentially negative information is observed across many areas of life, from finance to health. For example, people might avoid checking a bank balance after a large purchase or delay seeing a doctor about a worrisome symptom. Researchers found that while young children were eager for information, older children would avoid it, especially if encouraged to "protect their emotions." The study's authors hope the findings will help in understanding decision-making and how people manage stress related to receiving difficult information.