Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Reciprocal altruism refers to the idea that individuals engage in altruistic behaviors towards non-relatives because they expect to receive help in return at some point in the future. It is a form of cooperation based on mutual benefit.