Giving to others during national tragedy: The effects of altruistic and egoistic motivations on long-term giving

Abstract

The debate over altruistic and egoistic motivations for helping has a long history and evidence supports both motives. Immediate and sustained helping following the September 11 attacks on the United States were examined. The three most commonly reported helping behaviors were donating money, praying, and donating blood. Six reported motivations for giving emerged: to relieve one’s own distress, to relieve the other’s distress, to show patriotism, to show civic responsibility, the desire for support in a similar situation, and knowing someone involved. Less giving was reported after 1 year than immediately following the event. The only motivation related to sustained giving was giving to relieve the other’s distress. Results are discussed using two theories of helping.