Are There Multiple Motivators for Helping Behavior in Rats?

Empathy is the ability to (a) be affected by and share the emotional state of another; (b) assess the reasons for the other's state; and (c) identify with the other, adopting their perspective. This phenomenon has been shown to exist in several species and is proposed as a motivator for prosocial behavior. The experimental study of this feature in laboratory rodents is a more viable alternative in comparison to wild animals.

Adult criticism and vigilance diminish free riding by children in a social dilemma.

In cooperative situations, individual interests can be in conflict with those of the group, creating a social dilemma in which one must choose whether to cooperate or not. Sensitivity to social stimuli is an important factor influencing cooperative behavior in such dilemmas. The current study investigated the influence of verbal feedback and vigilance by adults on children's donating behavior in a public goods game.