Helping and Altruism

These flashcards cover key concepts related to helping and altruism, including effects and models that explain human behavior in emergency situations.

Identifiable Victim Effect

The tendency for individuals to be more moved by the plight of a single identified person than by a larger group of people in need.

Bystander Effect

A social psychological phenomenon where individuals are less likely to offer help to a victim when other people are present.

Latane & Darley’s Five-Step Model of Helping

A theoretical framework outlining the steps that lead to helping behavior: 1. Notice the event 2. Interpret the event as an emergency 3. Assume responsibility 4. Decide how to help 5. Provide help.

Audience Inhibition

A reluctance to intervene in an emergency situation due to fear of judgment from others.

Diffusion of Responsibility

The phenomenon where individuals feel less compelled to act because they believe others will take responsibility.

Pluralistic Ignorance

A situation in which individuals mistakenly believe that their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors are different from those of others, leading to a lack of action.

Intervention

An action or strategy intended to improve a situation, particularly in the context of enhancing helping behavior.

Statistical Victim

A term used to describe individuals represented as part of a larger group affected by a crisis, lacking personal identification.

Identifiable Victim

A specific individual who is realized as being in need, often leading to greater emotional response and willingness to help.

Self-concerns

Personal issues or distractions that may impede an individual's willingness to assist others in need.