prosocial behavior 

Prosocial Behavior

  • Learning Objectives:

    • Describe altruism.

    • Identify conditions influencing relationship formation.

    • Explain attraction factors in friendships and romantic relationships.

    • Describe Sternberg's triangular theory of love.

    • Explain social exchange theory in relationships.

Altruism and Prosocial Behavior

  • Prosocial behavior: Voluntary actions intended to help others.

  • Altruism: Desire to help others regardless of personal costs; debate exists on whether true altruism is selfless or egoistic.

  • Empathy: Understanding others' perspectives may drive altruistic behavior.

Forming Relationships

  • Key Influencer: Proximity; frequent contact increases friendship likelihood.

  • Similarity: People are drawn to those with similar backgrounds and lifestyles (homophily); limits exposure to diversity.

  • Reciprocity: Relationships involve give-and-take; mutual liking enhances interactions.

  • Self-disclosure: Sharing personal information fosters intimacy.

Attraction

  • Physical Attractiveness: Universally preferred traits exist, such as symmetry and certain body ratios.

  • Social Traits: Qualities like warmth and leadership are attractive; people often seek partners they perceive as equals in attractiveness (matching hypothesis).

Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love

  • Components of Love:

    • Intimacy: Emotional closeness.

    • Passion: Physical attraction.

    • Commitment: Long-term dedication.

  • Types of Love:

    • Consummate love: All three components present.

    • Companionate love: Intimacy + commitment.

    • Romantic love: Passion + intimacy.

    • Infatuation: Passion without intimacy or commitment.

    • Empty love: Commitment without passion or intimacy.

    • Fatuous love: Passion + commitment without intimacy.

Social Exchange Theory

  • People weigh costs and benefits in relationships; satisfaction linked to favorable balance of benefits.

  • General Principle: Relationships maintained when benefits outweigh costs; dissatisfaction arises when costs exceed benefits.