Giving or Gaining? Investigating Self-Interest Motivations in Altruistic Acts

Abstract

This study examines the influence of self-interest motivations on altruistic behaviour, a subject of great psychological debate. Altruism, traditionally viewed as a selfless act, is reassessed by considering the influence of self-interest motivation in altruistic behaviour. This research was conducted to address gaps in current knowledge of the factors influencing prosocial behaviour, specifically within the framework of conflicting theoretical viewpoints. The primary aim of this research was to investigate whether self-interest motivations negatively impact altruistic behaviour. The two hypotheses being (i) Self-prioritization negatively impacts altruistic actions and (ii) Self-maximization is a negative predictor of altruistic behaviour. Utilizing a quantitative, non-experimental design, the research analysed responses from 158 participants using validated psychological scales to assess altruistic behaviour and self-interest motivations. The findings revealed that while self-prioritizing motivations negatively predict altruistic behaviour, self-maximizing motivations do not significantly influence altruism. These findings suggest a complex interplay between personal gain and the welfare of others, where altruistic actions may not be inherently driven by self-interest. The study contributes to existing literature by challenging the traditional view that all human actions are driven by self-interest, highlighting the role of cultural and situational factors in shaping altruistic behaviour. This research bridges a significant gap in understanding the motives behind altruism but also discusses the practical implications of these findings for educational programs, organizational behaviour, and community engagement initiatives. By integrating insights from both evolutionary and psychological perspectives, this dissertation enriches the discourse on human social dynamics and opens new avenues for future research in prosocial behaviour.