8] Prosocial Behaviour [1] Flashcards
What is prosocial behaviour
Acts that are valued positively by society, they are defined by societal norms
Lauren Wispe (1972) definition of prosocial behaviour
1] It is voluntary and intended to benefit others
2] Includes being helpful and altruistic
3] Includes act of charity, friendship, cooperation, sacrifice, sharing, sympathy and trust
What are subcategories of prosocial behaviour
1] Helping behaviour
2] Altruistic behaviour
What is the bystander effect
When the greater the number of people present the less likely people will help the person in distress
Contributing factors of the bystander effect: Situational ambiguity
In ambiguous situations people are less likely to offer assistance than in a clear emergency.
Less likely in unfamiliar environments.
Contributing factors of the bystander effect: Perceived cost
Likelihood of helping increased as the perceived cost to ourself declines.
E.g: Social exchange theory
Contributing factors of the bystander effect: Diffusion of responsibility
The presence of other diffuse the sense of individual responsibility
Contributing factors of the bystander effect: Similarity
People are more willing to help when they perceive the person to be similar to themselves
Contributing factors of the bystander effect: Mood
More willing to help when in a good mood
Contributing factors of the bystander effect: Gender
Women in need are more likely to receive help from strangers than men
Contributing factors of the bystander effect: Attributions of the cause of need
People are more likely to help when they judge the person to be an innocent victim
Contributing factors of the bystander effect: Social norms
Norms determine behaviours that are expected of people in the social situation
What is a reciprocity norm
As norms determine how we behave, it suggest how we act to someone because of what they have previously done for us
What is the social-responsibility norm
When were are not aware of trading services for one another, we expect noting in return
What is genes involvement in helping people
We will help if that behaviour guarantees the future survival of our offspring or genetics
What is kin selection
The idea that behaviours that help a genetic relative are favoured by natural selection
Problems with kin selection are
1] Does not explain observed instances of animals helping non relatives
2] Human engage in altruistic acts like charity or donating blood
