Prosocial Development

Prosocial behavior--broadly defined as voluntary action intended to help or benefit another--has been associated with positive outcomes across the lifespan. Children with a more prosocial orientation are better liked and trusted by their peers have a higher status in peer groups are better at maintaining friendships demonstrate better self regulation empathy and social cognitive skills and excel in academics. Researchers have shown that prosocial behaviors correlate to lower rates of school suspension and drop-out teen pregnancy substance use aggression and delinquency. These positive effects speak to the value of prosocial behavior during formative years.