News

An Early Look at an Unequal World

18 Sept 2026

Jeanine Grütter is a professor in the Chair of Developmental Psychology and Educational Psychology. Her studies show how children in Nepal cope with social inequality.

How do children perceive social inequality—and how do they develop concepts of justice? Developmental psychologist Prof. Dr. Jeanine Grütter is addressing these questions in Nepal. Her research shows that as early as eight or nine years of age, children recognize social hierarchies and disparities in opportunities. At the same time, they want people to be treated equally, regardless of their background.

Grütter’s studies also show that schools and teachers play an important role. Where participation, equality, and democracy are promoted, children and adolescents are more likely to develop a willingness to advocate for social justice. Together with partners in Nepal, Grütter is now working to apply these findings to teacher education.

You can find the full news article in the LMU Newsroom.