Inhibitory Control, Social Cognition, and Peer Social Competence among Children with and without a Migration Background in Italy

Executive functions and social cognition (i.e., the mental operations that underlie interaction) are essential for children’s successful interactions, yet their role in peer competence among children with without a migration background is still underexplored. This study investigated influence of inhibitory control two domains (theory mind facial emotion recognition) on exploring moderation by background. First graders Italy (n = 321, M age 6.4 years, 45% girls, 39% background) completed standardized tests, while teachers rated students’ competence. The results indicated immigrant-origin were perceived as being less socially competent than non-immigrant counterparts. Among background, better recognition skills linked to increased Following presentation these results, we will discuss implications both developmental theory practice.