Visualizing Self: Altruism is (Un)Affected by Field Versus Observer Representations of Self

Purpose

This study examines the impact of first-person versus third-person mental visualizations of self on prosocial behavior, building on research that links perspective-taking to differences in moral judgments, agency, and self-awareness. A first-person perspective of self typically enhances feelings of agency, personal responsibility, and empathy, which has been hypothesized to lead to greater helping. However, a third-person perspective of self may heighten self-awareness, potentially leading to a greater focus on reputation management and consequently, helping.

Methods

In two preregistered experiments we test the impact of perspective taking of self on altruistic behavior. Experiment One (n = 599) manipulates generalized perspective taking of self during memory recall and assesses its effect on the amount of time individuals engage in a charitable activity. Experiment Two (n = 271) extends this investigation to explore how targeted perspective taking of self while visualizing a future volunteer activity influences intention to volunteer and actual volunteering.

Results

Across both experiments we found no evidence of an effect of perspective taking on altruistic behavior.

Conclusion

Our results contrast with previous research suggesting that differences in mental visualizations of self influence prosocial behaviors. These findings underscore the complexity of this research area and call for a deeper examination of the theoretical frameworks and methodology used in studies.