DuffCh13a.ppt

Cost-Benefit Model of Helping Cost-benefit analysis We are more inclined to help others when it will help us as well We weigh others’ needs with our own. If helping costs too much, we won’t. Sudan 1993 Kevin Carter was preparing to photograph a starving toddler trying to reach a feeding center when a vulture landed nearby. He waited 20 minutes to see if the vulture would flare its wings. He finally took a picture and then chased off the vulture. However, he came under criticism for failing to help the girl: Sudan 1993 Sold to the New York Times, the photograph first appeared on March 26, 1993. Hundreds of people contacted the newspaper to ask the fate of the girl. The paper reported that it was unknown whether she had managed to reach the feeding center. What are Other Influences on Helping? (continued) Altruistic personality – 5 traits that correlate with prosocial behavior Empathy Internal locus of control Belief in a just world A sense of social responsibility Low egocentrism What are Other Influences on Helping? (continued) Modeling When we observe other people (family, peers, role models) behave prosocially, we are likely to as well The media is a big factor in this area Modeling Prosocial Behavior. If we are exposed to role models who exhibit prosocial behavior, we are more likely to exhibit such behaviors ourselves. What are Other Influences on Helping? (continued) How it feels to he helped Help can make us feel threatened if it is critical or comes with attitude. Help provided by an enemy? Forget about it? (say that in a New York accent!) How Can We Increase Prosocial Behavior? Prosocial television programs for kids Increases helping behavior Decreases aggression Helps reduce stereotypes Teach good citizenship in classrooms How Can We Increase Prosocial Behavior? (continued) Attributions If we feel the help is needed because of situations out of a person’s control, we are more likely to act prosocially Education Enlightenment effect – learni