Interpersonal Determinants of Helping and the Transgression-Compliance Relationship

Abstract Hypotheses derived from a self-presentation analysis of the increments in helping following transgression were examined. Subjects (N = 63) present when a confederate spilled a box of computer cards were asked to volunteer to assist in an unrelated experiment. Prior to the solicitation of help, confederates either did nor did not confess to having spilled the cards. Help was solicited under either public or anonymous conditions. The prediction that subjects would be more willing to help under public than anonymous conditions was supported. Subjects under public conditions were more willing to help when confederates had confessed. The prediction that the mere occurrence of the accident would increase helping was not supported. Results are consistent with the self-presentation analysis but call into question the reliability of the transgression-compliance relationship.