Emotions
As humans, we all deal with a great variety of emotions that can affect many aspects of our lives. One of these aspects is the likelihood that we would engage in helpful behavior. Emotions could have to do with both internal and external factors due to the fact that some emotions are brought out based on the external factors. On a daily basis we can differentiate emotional reactions to external events from reactions we have based on internal attributes. For example, a friend being mad at you is an external factor, but how you react to that is based on the type of person you are.
Personality Dispositons
Personality dispositions are defined as a stable characteristic behavioral traits that are based on learning experiences and genetics or both.
In terms of helping, there are certain personality dispositions that tend to predict prosocial behavior more than others. In layman terms, some people are just more helpful than others.
In terms of helping, there are certain personality dispositions that tend to predict prosocial behavior more than others. In layman terms, some people are just more helpful than others.
Empathy
Empathy is a trait that includes sympathy, a desire to solve the issue and putting one's self in another person's shoes. It differs from sympathy because not only do they feel what another person is going through and understand why, but they also want to relieve the pain. Those who have empathetic traits tend to want to help others immensely. On the opposite end, those who lack empathy tend to enjoy making others feel pain.
Altruism
Altruism is a combination of dispositional variables that are associated with helpful behavior. An altruistic person has five characteristics that are the recipe for prosocial behavior
- Low Egocentrism: They are not at all self centered or competitive
- Empathy: They are able to put themselves in other people's position and want to help alleviate their pain. Most tend to also be responsible, tolerant, self controlled, and motivated to make a good impression.
- Belief In A Just World: They believe that good people are rewarded and bad people are punished which pushes them to help because it is the right thing to do.
- Internal Locus Of Control: This is the belief that a person can choose to behave in such that promote good outcomes and eliminate negative ones.
- Social Responsibility:Helpful people take responsibility towards others who are in need.