Witnessing harm to other: A reassessment of the role of guilt in altruistic behavior.

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Abstract
To compare the effects on altruistic behavior as a result of harming another vs. merely witnessing the distress of a victim, guilt was aroused in Ss in 1 experimental treatment by making Ss responsible for a partner's (P's) punishment (electric shock). A 2nd group of Ss observed Ps receiving punishment for which neither S nor P was responsible. 2 control groups were included. In the 1st control group Ss were responsible for punishment to both themselves and Ps. In the 2nd control condition neither Ss nor Ps received punishment. All Ss were then given an opportunity to act altruistically toward a new P in a different situation. 40 female undergraduate volunteers served as Ss. A Duncan range test indicated that Ss in both experimental groups were significantly more altruistic toward a new partner than were Ss in the 2 control groups. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)

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