Sugar-coated or Bullets-hided: An Analysis of the Types of Children’s Lie-telling under the Influence of Parents’ White Lies

Abstract

This study explores the different types of lying behavior among children within a Chinese family under the influence of parents’ white lies. This study aims to explore the connection between parents’ white lies and the various types of lying behavior children exhibit. Data was obtained through an online questionnaire that was completed by young adults between the ages of 19-30 who had experienced white lies from parents during their childhood. Our study found a negative correlation between parents’ use of white lies and their children’s tendency to lie. The results of the study provide valuable insight into the relationship between parental white lies and children’s lying behaviors and possibly offer effective parenting strategies.