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Reciprocity Norm

Definition

The reciprocity norm is a social expectation that we should return help to those who have helped us.

Analogy

Think about it like this - if your friend buys you lunch one day, you'll probably feel inclined to buy them lunch another day. That's the reciprocity norm at work!

Related terms

Social Norms: These are unwritten rules about how members of a society or group are expected to behave.

Altruism: Altruism refers to selfless acts done for the benefit of others without expecting anything in return.

Prosocial Behavior: This term refers to any behavior that benefits other people or society as a whole.

"Reciprocity Norm" appears in:

Practice Questions (1)

  • How can the reciprocity norm influence one's feelings of interpersonal attraction?


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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.