How do people use social exchange theory, empathy, reciprocity norms, and social responsibility norms to explain helping?

How do people use social exchange theory, empathy, reciprocity norms, and social responsibility norms to explain helping?



Why do we help other people? Some researchers say that we help others to help ourselves/ This is called social-exchange theory-- human interactions are transactions that aim to maximize one's rewards and minimize one's cost.

Other researchers argue that we help others because of empathy -- the vicarious experience of another feelings; or putting oneself in another's shoes. If I can feel your pain, I will want to reduce it.

There is also the reciprocity norm -- An expectation that people will help, not hurt, those who have helped them.

And the social-responsibility norm -- An expectation that people will help those dependent upon them.

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