Prosocial Behavior
Definition
Prosocial behavior refers to actions that benefit other people or society as a whole, such as helping, sharing, donating, co-operating, and volunteering.
Analogy
Imagine prosocial behavior as being part of a sports team where everyone works together towards winning. Each pass, assist or encouragement is an act benefiting not just one player but the entire team (society).
Related terms
Altruism: This is selfless concern for the well-being of others. It's like giving up your seat on a bus for someone who needs it more than you do.
Social Responsibility Norm: This norm suggests that we should try to help others who need assistance, even without any expectation of future paybacks.
Reciprocity Norm: This social expectation encourages us to return favors received.
"Prosocial Behavior" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (3)
Which developmental theory best explains why children typically demonstrate more prosocial behavior as they age?
Under which circumstances would prosocial behavior most likely occur according to the empathy-altruism hypothesis?
What could be an innovative method for testing prosocial behavior's relationship with empathetic concern in adolescents?
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