Altruism is the behavior one has when they are attempting to benefit others but not themselves. Commonly seen is altruistic helping, or when someone gives away something desirable even at a cost to themselves.

If you’re wondering if babies can be altruistic, the answer is yes!

This action begins in infancy and evidence has been found that babies often engage in altruistic behavior, suggesting that early social experiences can shape altruism.

Being altruistic is an important aspect of being human. It is a priority to teach children this because it impacts their morals and overall goodness in society. Adults help one another when someone is in need, even at a cost to us, the roots of this are found in infants. 

What is an Altruist?

An altruist is someone who cares about the happiness and well-being of others before being concerned about themselves. Altruistic behavior is thought to have biological roots. Studies have shown that it begins in infancy before socialization can shape this behavior. Based on recent findings, it is suggested that it is in our nature to be altruists.

There is little evidence that children’s altruism comes solely because of their parents or genetics. It is reshaped when they are introduced to society, choosing whom they can trust or decide to associate with.

Humans instinctively create a sense of shared intentionality — a sense of “we.” This bond starts in infancy and continues into adulthood.

Altruistic Personality Traits Recognized in Babies

The altruistic personality traits that are recognized in babies are found during every day and normal occurrences. Experiments have noticed altruism and cooperation when they are toilet training, playing with toys, or watching their parents.

These traits are what differentiate humans from other species. From when toddlers walk and talk they are cultural beings. Whether they are signified or not, they try to be helpful to others. You may see your toddler offer to open the door for someone or offer a helping hand. They do not obtain this instinct from watching adults, it comes naturally.

Limitations to a Toddler’s Social Cognitive Perspective

Social cognition refers to how people process, remember and use information in a social context to explain or predict their behavior. Children’s social cognition may be impacted by internal and external factors. The way that they are raised and the amount of time that they spend with others are important contributors.

The limitations toddlers face when utilizing their social cognitive perspective arise when they choose to do something they believe will be helpful, but actually is not. Although children want to help people, they are still immature and inexperienced individuals. 

How to Support Altruistic Behavior in Children

Parents can support their child’s altruistic behavior by creating scenarios in which they can offer their assistance and help. For example, studies have shown when a parent drops something — pretending to struggle to pick it up — more often than not, the toddler offers their help. 

Teachers are also supporters of altruism in children. Classrooms are now designed to promote cooperation rather than competition; they require students to work together in racially and ethnically diverse groups where each person can contribute to the assignment. Without the contribution and help of each student, they cannot succeed. Studies show that this method of teaching makes empathy and understanding available to children at an early age.

The Downsides to Pathological Altruism

Pathological altruism is attempting to do good and support others but resulting in unanticipated harm. What that means is, that sometimes people aim to do good but accidentally cause more harm and damage. This situation happens often in family dynamics and relationships.

Children are taught that giving is good and in response makes them feel good. Although, there are situations where giving to others or putting someone’s needs before your own is necessary but they are some that are not. They need to decipher when this decision is best and not ignore attention to themselves in fear of saying no.

If you have questions, or just want a little extra parenting support, Little Otter is here to help!