What concept of fairness begins to develop in middle childhood?

The concept of fairness that begins to develop in middle childhood is centered around justice and equity. During this stage, children start to understand that fairness involves considering the needs and circumstances of others, not just their own. They become more adept at recognizing that everyone should have equal access to resources and opportunities, and they begin to develop a sense of moral reasoning that emphasizes the importance of treating others with fairness.

As they engage in social interactions, children in middle childhood begin to navigate complexities such as sharing and cooperation, paving the way for a deeper understanding of equitable outcomes. They also start to appreciate that fairness is not solely about equal distribution but is influenced by context, such as individual needs or contributions, which is critical to the development of a just society. The growing concern for justice and equity reflects their evolving cognitive processes and moral development during this pivotal stage.