CHARACTERISTICS OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AN INDIVIDUAL’S ALTRUISTIC ORIENTATION AND FACTORS INFLUENCING ITS DEVELOPMENT IN EARLY ADULTHOOD

Abstract

The article focuses on identifying the characteristics of the relationship between an individual’s altruistic orientation and the factors influencing its development in early adulthood. To achieve the aim and objectives of the study, Pearson’s correlation coefficient was applied, which made it possible to identify and interpret the significance of the relationships examined. Significant positive relationships were found between a high level of altruistic orientation and (a) elevated social responsibility, whereby altruistic orientation is associated with a sense of duty to the society and a willingness to assume responsibility for social processes even under conditions of risk or societal pressure; (b) consideration of others’ needs and interests in moral decision-making, where life situations are assessed in terms of how different actions may affect others and where individuals strive to achieve mutual benefit or act in the interests of social harmony, others’ well-being, and the maintenance of fair social relationships in society; and (c) a high level of empathy and readiness to help others, including acting in accordance with one’s moral principles even in challenging circumstances, as well as supporting social justice through the application of sanctions against norm violators to maintain social fairness and harmony. The identified significant relationships indicate that altruistic orientation in early adulthood is not merely a consequence of social desirability or external expectations but is also rooted in deeply held moral convictions that motivate individuals to act, even when such actions may be difficult or dangerous. Altruistically oriented individuals tend to show higher levels of empathic care, manifested in more profound concern for others. The findings suggest that the early-adult participants in the study demonstrate substantial potential for prosocial interaction aimed at the development of altruistic behavior; subsequent research will focus on the conditions under which this potential can be effectively realized.