Partial-altruistic interactions as a function of reciprocity induction and written declarations

Abstract

ABSTRACTTwo studies were conducted to systematically evaluate the effects of induced reciprocity by a confederate and written declarations about anticipated responding in the task on partial-altruistic interactions. The experimental situation consisted of solving puzzles on two synchronized computer screens. Sixteen college students were assigned to 16 dyads (one participant and one confederate), eight in each experiment. All dyads were exposed to successive experimental conditions in which the percentage of pieces placed in the participant’s puzzle by the confederate varied from 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% to 100%. Half of the dyads were exposed to an increasing order of percentages and the other half to a decreasing order. In Experiment 1, the effects of time-restricted induction of reciprocal behavior by a confederate were analyzed, implementing a response alternation procedure, on partial-altruistic behavior of the participant in the dyad. In Experiment 2, the effects of the interaction between reciprocal responding and written declarations anticipating the participant’s responses in the same partial-altruistic situation were compared. Participants showed partial-altruistic behavior as a function of the percentage of pieces placed by the confederates in remote puzzle. Results are discussed in terms of the kinds of reciprocity involved in all social exchange relations and the role of situational and verbal factors.