10 Questions
Which term refers to any behavior that is designed to increase another person's welfare, and particularly those actions that do not seem to provide a direct reward to the person who performs them?
Altruism
What do social psychologists try to differentiate between when studying altruism?
Altruism and helping
Which of the following is NOT a role of reciprocity and social exchange in helping?
Providing a direct reward
What influences helping behavior according to evolutionary factors?
Reciprocity and social exchange
What do recent research findings suggest about altruistic behaviors?
They are intuitive, reflexive, and automatic
Altruism refers to any behavior that is designed to increase another person's welfare, and particularly those actions that do not seem to provide a direct reward to the person who performs them. True or False?
True
What are the roles of reciprocity and social exchange in helping?
To maximize personal benefits while minimizing costs
What influences helping behavior according to social norms?
The fear of social disapproval
What do recent research findings suggest about altruistic behaviors?
They are intuitive and automatic
What do social psychologists try to differentiate between when studying altruism?
Altruism and helping
Study Notes
Altruism
- Altruism refers to any behavior that is designed to increase another person's welfare, and particularly those actions that do not seem to provide a direct reward to the person who performs them.
Studying Altruism
- Social psychologists try to differentiate between true altruism and pseudo-altruism when studying altruism.
Reciprocity and Social Exchange
- Reciprocity and social exchange play a role in helping by increasing the likelihood of future help, providing a sense of social obligation, and establishing a sense of fairness and reciprocity.
- Reciprocity and social exchange do not motivate helping solely to gain a direct reward.
Evolutionary Factors
- Helping behavior is influenced by evolutionary factors, such as kin selection and group selection, which promote the survival and reproduction of genetic relatives and group members.
Recent Research Findings
- Recent research findings suggest that altruistic behaviors can be nurtured and encouraged, and that humans have a natural tendency to behave altruistically.
Social Norms
- Social norms, such as social pressure and moral obligation, influence helping behavior by promoting conformity to cultural and social expectations.
Test your knowledge on the psychology of altruism and helping behavior with this quiz. Explore the distinctions between altruism and helping, the role of reciprocity and social exchange, evolutionary factors, and the influence of rewards and costs on helping.
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