Altruism and Prosocial Behavior

What is Social Exchange Theory in altruism?

We help to maximize rewards and minimize costs.

What are the key social norms influencing helping behavior?

Reciprocity norm and social responsibility norm.

What is kin selection?

Helping those genetically related to us to increase survival of shared genes.

What is the "decision tree" model by Latane & Darley?

Steps to helping: Notice → Interpret → Assume Responsibility.

What is pluralistic ignorance?

Assuming something is not an emergency because others aren't reacting.

What is diffusion of responsibility?

Assuming others will help, reducing our own likelihood to act.

What are the key findings of Darley & Batson’s "Good Samaritan" study?

Time pressure reduces helping behavior.

What did McMillen & Austin find in their guilt study?

"Liars" were more likely to help to reduce guilt.

What did Isen et al.'s gift + wrong number study show?

Positive mood increases helping behavior.

What does Batson's empathy-altruism hypothesis suggest?

Empathy leads to true altruism, even when helping is costly.

Who is more likely to be helped based on gender?

Women.

What effect does similarity have on helping behavior?

Greater similarity increases helping likelihood.

How can observing others increase prosocial behavior?

Via observational learning and moral elevation.

What biological factors increase helping?

Mirror neurons and "tending & befriending" hormones.