Home›Psychology›Social Psychology›What is Altruism?
◉ Psychology·1 min·Updated Mar 13, 2026

What is Altruism?

Altruism

Quick Answer

A selfless concern for the well-being of others defines altruism. It involves actions taken to help others without expecting anything in return.

Overview

Altruism is the act of helping others without seeking personal gain. This behavior can be seen in many forms, such as donating to charity, volunteering time, or even helping a stranger in need. It is often driven by empathy, where one feels compassion for the suffering of others and takes action to alleviate that suffering. In social psychology, altruism is important because it helps build strong communities and social bonds. When people engage in altruistic behavior, it can create a ripple effect, encouraging others to act kindly as well. For example, if someone sees a neighbor helping another neighbor, they may be inspired to lend a hand themselves, fostering a culture of support and cooperation. Understanding altruism also sheds light on human motivations and social interactions. Researchers study why people choose to help others and what factors influence their decisions. This knowledge can be applied to improve social programs and create environments that encourage more altruistic behaviors, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

Frequently Asked Questions

Examples of altruistic behavior include donating money to a charity, volunteering at a local shelter, or helping someone carry groceries. These actions are done without expecting anything in return and often stem from a desire to help others.
Altruism can be both natural and learned. Some researchers believe that humans have an innate tendency to care for others, while social and cultural factors can also shape altruistic behavior through upbringing and societal norms.
Yes, altruism can sometimes lead to negative consequences, such as when someone sacrifices their own well-being for others. Additionally, excessive altruism may result in burnout or exploitation by those who take advantage of kind individuals.