How to Share Prosocial Behavior without Being Considered a Braggart?

Abstract

When people share their prosocial behavior on social media, they always face the braggart's dilemma. By sharing their good deeds, they run the risk of being considered braggarts and thus less likable; by staying silent, they receive no credit for what they do. This study proposes a framing strategy to alleviate this concern. By acknowledging a third party involved in the prosocial activity (e.g., organizer or sponsor), one will be perceived as more likable through reducing the suspicion of self-promoting and perceived to have put in more effort. An empirical study based on Twitter data was conducted to confirm our prediction. An experimental study follows to verify the mechanism. The findings provide implications for various stakeholders that take part in prosocial activities."If you're like most people, self-promotion does not come easily…That being said, we have no issue whatsoever promoting our friends and colleagues." -Forbes [17]

Social support and prosocial behavior in Chinese college students during the COVID-19 outbreak: a moderated mediation model of positive affect and parental care

“…The intention of PSB was largely created in critical situations through empathy ( Eyal et al, 2018 ), which was further enhanced in temporary positive emotional states ( Eisenberg et al, 2002a ). Prosocial behavior is more likely to be aroused by the sharing of success and joy in helping others ( Tan et al, 2020 ). At the same time, social support, as a factor of protection and also acted as a buffer during stress promoting positive emotions ( Wang et al, 2022 ; Jasiński and Derbis, 2023 ) and subjective well-being ( Yıldırım and Celik, 2020 ), thus possibly elevating the occurrence of PSB ( Snippe et al, 2017 ).…”