Random acts of kindness and the psychology of altruistic giving

Altruism and Psychology

Altruism

Random act of kindness

An oft-repeated aspersion cast on the young generation is about its 'carefree'ness which actually translates to carelessness or self-centeredness. As a member of that targeted group, I resent the accusation, even if I cannot refute the charges with sound conviction. However, as an individual, I had the liberty to test the spirituality that supposedly resides within every living person. I also sought to test the "feeling" and joy of giving; without seeking any returns. To say that I was surprised would be to understate it. I am enjoying it, and my continuance of small acts is a living proof to the feeling of peace and satisfaction I accrue.

On my regular walks to the mall that houses a merry-go-round, I chose to avail some needy children a few rides at my cost (a meager $5). I wanted to remain incognito. I would not even watch how my money was being used neither seek any feedback from the park operator. They need not know about why it was being done or who was doing it; Just keep on the good work. Encouraged by the consequent "feelings," I now invariably buy extra tickets for rides and other roller coasters in parks I visit that I offer to those who I think cannot afford, but would be better for it. Amongst those I gave tickets at parks were children as well as shy, elderly, people who looked in need of a few good moments.

This is not something on a grand scale or with far-reaching effects socially, but it has made me feel fulfilled with an unknown, serene peace and joy. It seems like a revelation to me, to find myself pleasantly surprised even though I was the one who was 'giving'. I now seek more of it, and wish to continue on this path of spiritual, detached pleasure. Just to see a smile lighten up a face, makes my day. I realized that first day as I do every time now, that small acts can not only infuse joy in your surroundings but also awaken the sense of true happiness and fulfillment within the 'giver'.

I now realize that I have opened my arms to embrace spirituality and wish to continue doing all that I can to explore this feeling further. Some of the experiences I have had in this pursuit have convinced me that every act of kindness and care matters -- we need to keep doing them in our own way, as I have seen even a small act making a big difference, even in total strangers

Altruism, Personal and Professional Social Responsibility, And Codependency

Altruism is actually welfare of people without desiring any benefit in return. It means true altruism is an act in which one gives priority to solve others' problem over oneself. On the contrary, aspects attached to an individual's behavior that precisely effect societal gain are responsibilities on a personal, professional and social level. Co-dependency is based on the emotional and behavioral elements of an individual with low-confidence due to which one tries to seek internal happiness from others (Trivers, 1971). In present society, altruism work is infrequent as justification establishes proof that in most of the charity work, pure and core authentic value is absent. Personal, professional, and social responsibilities show one's want to develop a healthy social framework, while codependency is based on corresponding relationship between two or more individuals (Mandala Publications, 2006).

Altruism: Applied to Psychology or Psychological Principles

Psychological altruism signifies work for the betterment of others, without any desire of consequent personal gain. In psychology, various structures exist, through which people get awareness and look after other people needs. Analyzing these helps determine primary and secondary altruism, to help, and more importantly, altruistic help. This gives extensive analysis of the scenarios wherein altruism and other reasons whether or not become causal to influence behavior. Psychology has determined various elements that have been remain unchecked and weaken effective altruism. Lastly, to develop a truly caring society, psychology determines a framework based on both theory and experiment. Being mature, people may use various progressively refined methods to understand the emotional experiences of other people. Despite significant disagreements about these existing methods, 'empathy' is generally emphasized as a key term for them. The more people are able to empathize, the more they will become altruistic. Social skills training which enhance empathizing abilities of people (Stepien & Baernstein, 2006)also contribute to enhance their capability to become altruistic. It is important to remember that, by getting others' point-of-view, alleviation others' pain can also be further improved (Stone, 2006).

How does altruism improve the human condition?

Altruism stimulates reward centers in the brain. According to the findings of neurobiologists, when altruistic work is performed, it activates pleasure parts of the brain. Philosophers, ethnologists and evolutionary biologists mention about an "altruistic gene" and profess that a species, more influenced by altruism as compared to aggression, has a strong possibility to survive, as altruism is a significant aspect what Darwin meant by "fitness." From a psychological point-of-view, in relation to any inclination that can exist, aspects like nurturance and kindness are altruistic attitudes that may be imbibed and grown in the home as well as in the school (Midlarsky, 2011).

Are there limits to altruism?

Yes. If altruism were limitless, we would have found more harmony in the world. Lack of omnipresent harmony defines the veracity of limits to altruism.

What are some personal and professional responsibilities related to altruism?