The effects of rewards on trial-and-error learning in school-aged children

Abstract

Humans’ ability to rapidly identify appropriate actions in new situations is critical for functional behavior. This skill develops through trial-and-error where humans learn to choose the optimal actions through rewards from previous acts. Here, we used computerized games to test developmental changes in how rewards affect trial-and-error learning. School-aged children (5- to 15-year-olds) played online games while receiving either positive rewards, negative rewards, or no rewards. We tested how the groups differed in performance and play strategy. Children who received negative rewards had higher success rates, fewer attempts, and more efficient strategies. They also showed significant improvement with age, similar to the controls but in contrast to children who received positive rewards. Our findings demonstrate a developmental shift in how rewards affect trial and error and suggest that negative rewards emerge as a powerful cognitive reinforcer during late childhood.