Prosocial Behaviour Flashcards
What is prosocial behaviour?
Voluntary action that is valued by society and that contributes to the physical or psychological well-being of another.
What is altruism?
A form of helping behaviour that is performed without the expectation of personal gain.
Which two areas of the brain are known to impact behaviours related to empathy and helping?
The amygdala and pre-frontal cortex.
Which factors shape our behaviour and may inhibit us from responding in emergencies?
Situational ones.
To what can the lack of help provided by bystanders to those in need be attributed?
To a perceived diffusion of responsibility, and the assumption that others will take action.
What are three explanations for why humans cooperate?
- For kin selection
- Due to reciprocity norms
- Due to social norms
What is one possible explanation for altruistic behaviour?
For the passing on of our genes.
What is there evidence for in relation to natural selection?
That natural selection favours altruistic acts that are directed towards genetic relatives.
Who are children more likely to help than their friends?
Their siblings.
What are social norms?
Standards of behaviour that we see as appropriate and desirable regarding helping.
What is an example of a social norm related to cooperation and reciprocity?
That if someone helps us, we should help them in the future.
What is the social responsibility norm?
The idea that we should try and help others who need assistance even if there is no future payback.
What does helping frequently involve?
A trade-off between self-concern and other-concern.
Despite perhaps wanting to help others, what often keeps us from doing so?
Self-interest
When are people most likely to help?
When they feel competent (that they have the skills and knowledge that the situation necessitates).
