What psychological principle refers to behaviors intended to positively benefit others?

The principle that refers to behaviors intended to positively benefit others is prosocial behavior. This encompasses a wide range of actions, such as helping, sharing, donating, and volunteering, all aimed at promoting the well-being of individuals or society as a whole. Prosocial behavior is driven by various factors, including a sense of morality, empathy, and social norms, and is often seen in contexts where individuals work together for mutual benefit.

In contrast, social facilitation relates to how the presence of others can enhance performance on tasks; empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others but does not necessarily lead to action; and collectivism refers to a cultural value that emphasizes the needs and goals of the group over the individual. While these concepts may interact with or support prosocial behavior, they do not directly define the actions taken to benefit others.