Theories And Characteristics Of Prosocial Behavior

Prosocial behavior has been used as a term since the 1970s and is the antonym of antisocial behavior. Prosocial behavior builds relationships and helps the society function effectively. According to Eisenberg and Mussen (1988), it can be defined as voluntary actions that are intended to help or benefit another individual or group of individuals (p.3). For this assignment I will define prosocial behavior, go over the different theories and motives of prosocial behavior, elaborate on conditions in which diffusion of responsibility might occur and go through the steps an individual must go through when deciding to help a stranger in need.

Why do some people behave pro socially when others do not? many social psychologists have begun a serious

Prosocial behavior is also learned through observation and direct reinforcement, the Learning Explanation (Nurture): Social Learning Theory, argued that prosocial behavior is learned in the same way as any other behavior and can be achieved in three ways: 1) for parents and others to reward prosocial acts with praise; 2) for parents to act as prosocial models themselves; 3) to expose children to other models who behave in prosocial ways (Clarke, 2003, p.18).

Social psychologist references several theories for the explanations of prosocial behavior. Norms theories; pro-social behavior is that which benefits society and we help others because we are motivated to act in accordance with the norm of helping those in need (Clarke, 2003, p.24). Reciprocity norm: maintaining fairness in relationships; People might learn that if they supply help, they will receive help in return (Fiske, 2010, p. 345); norm of social responsibility: people are responsible for one another’s welfare (Fiske, 2010, p. 368); norm of social justice: we should help only when others deserve assistance. Another theory is the theory of norm activation; and it attempts to predict when people will

Realize the event is a true emergency: Once an individual notice that there is something unusual happening, they need to determine what is happening and whether it needs attention. Interpretation of the situation is vital. If there is a true emergency, they move on to the next step

3. Taking responsibility: Am I responsible? The individual needs to take responsibility for helping, but might avoid taking responsibility by assuming that somebody else will (Bystander Effect). If the individual takes responsibility, they move on to the next step.

4. Believe that you have the required skills to help: If someone is choking, they will require the Heimlick Maneuver and if the person is not able to perform the task they will be less likely to help. The individual needs to decide on the appropriate helping response. If the individual has the require skills to help or seek help, they move on to the next step.

5. Provide Help: Final decision is made; once the individual goes through the four steps, they only need to make the final decision to provide help, but it may go against their interest to do so, especially in dangerous