In a crisis, what factors determine whether people will be altruistic?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Essay should include:

Altruism is defined as unselfish concern for the welfare of others. There are many factors to consider when examining who will be altruistic and why. First is being in a good mood. Being in a good mood gives people a feeling of control or power and in that case, they are more likely to be altruistic toward others. People who are empathetic are also more altruistic as they can identify with the person in need. Generally speaking, women tend to be more empathetic than men. People must also define the situation as one in which there is a need for help. People may mistakenly assume there is no real problem and thus would not intervene. People are more likely to be altruistic if they are the only person available in the situation. In groups, diffusion of responsibility may occur and people may be less likely to get involved as they feel there are other people around to do so. Observers must know what to do. In some cases, people may want to help, but do not have the skills to do so, such as helping an injured person at an accident site, or saving a person from drowning. People are more likely to act altruistically toward those they know rather than toward strangers. Finally, people are more likely to be altruistic towards those they feel are similar to themselves. Those from different backgrounds are less likely to elicit altruistic behaviors.