Definitions - human relationships

Prosocial behaviour

is intentional actions aimed at benefiting others over oneself.

Altruism

when one helps another person for no apparent reward, and potentially a cost to oneself

selfish gene theory

there is an innate drive for the survival and propagation of one’s genes

kin selection

the more two individuals are genetically related, the more sense it makes for them to behave selflessly with each other

prosocial behaviour

intentional actions aimed at benefiting others over oneself

theory of the mind

cognitive understanding that others have perspectives and emotions distinct from your own

empathy

experiencing the emotions of others yourself

egotistic helping

suggests all prosocial behaviour is driven by self-interest

altruistic helping

voluntary selfless behaviour intended to benefit others with little/no expectation of personal reward

Kaldini (1987) Negative State Relief Model

one only helps to reduce sadness/empathy

Batsen (1980) Empathy Altruism Model

helping behaviour is motivated by the need to rid distress or because of empathy