Discussion Post
Does Twitter Help?
After major disasters, people are often quick to go onto social media and send messages of support. However, many well-meaning people post messages using official hashtags that are meant for rescuers and people in need of emergency services. This can lead to difficulties for people finding and receiving valuable help. Discuss how Twitter and other social media affect helping behavior. Does it have an overall benefit, or is it making helping more difficult and less likely?
Empathy
Discuss what the concept of empathy involves. Is empathy declining among U.S. college students? What are some research findings supporting a decrease in empathy that empathy among Millennials? What has contributed to a decrease in empathetic behaviors while narcissism has increased in younger generations?
True Altruism & Gratitude
Does true altruism exist? If an individual feels positive affect after helping someone, is it truly a selfless act? What selfless acts can you think of that have no benefit to the helper? Discuss why we expect gratitude when we help others. Why are most of us at least a little taken aback if the person does not acknowledge or express gratitude for the helpful behavior? Should it be enough privately knowing that we helped someone? Discuss why some people may not express gratitude; some people may feel shame or experience a decrease in self- esteem if someone helps them.
Kitty Genovese
The iconic event in the history of helping research-the story of the 38 witnesses who remained inactive during the murder of Kitty Genovese. The story itself has become a modern parable, the telling of which has served to limit the scope of inquiry into emergency helping; the concept of the Bystander Effect was born out of this tragedy. Discuss the principles of the bystander effect, the idea that even when become aware of this effect that most still will not get involved in an emergency.
The response must include a reference list. Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.