Additional information
by Laura M. Padilla-Walker (Editor), Gustavo Carlo (Editor)
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.
Author Biography
Laura Padilla-Walker is an Associate Professor in the School of Family Life at Brigham Young University. Her research focuses on the parent-child relationship as it relates to prosocial and moral development during adolescence and emerging adulthood. Dr. Padilla-Walker has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters.
Gustavo Carlo is the Millsap Professor of Diversity and Multicultural Studies in Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Missouri. His primary interests are the parenting, personality, and sociocultural correlates of prosocial and moral behaviors. Dr. Carlo has published well over 100 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and has co-edited several volumes.
