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Research Paper | Human Development and Family Studies | India | Volume 6 Issue 2, February 2017
Prosocial Behaviour: The Waning Trait
Abstract: Prosocial behavior refers to voluntary actions that are intended to help or benefit another individual or group of individuals. It includes broad range of activities like sharing, comforting, rescuing and helping. Today people help if they get return help or for prestige. Only few people are prosocial in true sense. So there is need to focus on why this trait is waning Perceiving a need in others does not always lead to sufficient motivation to help. We may be less likely to help those who have no power to return the favor. Gender differences were also found in prosocial behavior. Males were found to be more helpful in broader public sphere, toward strangers and in emergencies. They help women more than men. Women are more likely to help in the family sphere in close relationship, and in situations that require repetitive contact. Cultural differences and individual person current mood also influences prosocial behavior. In todays society family relationship has changed, lack of role model to demonstrate prosocial behavior, relationship with neighbours has changed as they have become exchange relationship rather than communal. In schools team work is not encouraged, instead competition is encouraged. Prosocial behavior can be increased by decreasing pluralistic ignorance and diffusion of responsibility, increase competence to help. Education about bystander indifference and moral inclusion. If prosocial behavior will increase among people it will improve organizational working, smooth functioning of society, decrease in anti social acts and trustworthy relationships.
Keywords: Prosocial, Bystander, Pluralistic ignorance
Edition: Volume 6 Issue 2, February 2017,
Pages: 457 - 459