Abstract
Two studies examined Japanese children’s and adults’ understanding of the role of psychological factors of taste experiences on biological processes such as growth and illness. Study 1 examined the role of tasty and not tasty foods on height, weight, and illness, respectively. The second graders (n=24) often affirmed the effects of psychological factors than the adults (n=21), but concerning illness, both adults and children seldom used psychological labels to assess the impact of psychological factors. Study 2 further examined participants’ appreciation of psychological and biological domains was process-specific. The results suggest that preschoolers’ and also adults’ awareness tended to be process-dependent. At present, it can be said that cross mind-body awareness did appear to become more process-sensitive in the older age groups. It is possible that the acquisition of biological knowledge with age and experience may enable children to adjust their reasoning to various contexts.
