Theories about helping others

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Here are academic theories about how we seek to help other people.

Contact Hypothesis: bringing enemies together increases understanding.
Equity Theory: we are happiest when give and take are equal.
Empathy-Altruism Hypothesis: if we feel empathy we are likely to help.
Love: there are several styles of love.
Politeness Theory: we act politely or rudely depending on whether we care.
Prosocial Behavior: we sometimes help without need for reward.
Social Exchange Theory: perception of relationships depends on fairness perception.
Terminating relationships: relationships break down in stages.
Reciprocity Norm: we need to return another's favor.

See also