Reciprocity among Poles and the role of social policy in shaping it. If an individual believes that others will reciprocate their initial cooperative behaviour, it is rational for them to cooperate. Conversely, if they believe the opposite, cooperation would be seen as irrational and potentially dangerous. Low levels of trust in society have negative implications for quality of life, economic progress, and the functioning of public institutions. Surveys have revealed a prevailing lack of trust among the Polish population. Poles hold the belief that people are mainly driven by self-interest, implying that they anticipate others to engage in free-riding rather than altruism. The survey participants exhibit a low belief in reciprocation among those receiving benefits, suggesting a diminished desire to support others. Moreover, a significant portion of Poles still holds the view that receiving social benefits, excluding pensions, leads to changes in attitudes and behaviours, making beneficiaries less inclined to reciprocate to society.