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<p>This study investigates the associations between two dimensions of prosocial behavior—altruism and concern for others—and children’s perceptions of best friendship quality and feelings of loneliness in middle childhood. The sample consisted of 293 fifth-grade students (M age = 10.4, SD = 0.48) attending public elementary schools in Greece. Altruistic behavior and emotional concern were assessed through self-report questionnaires, while mutual best friendships were identified using peer nominations. Children also reported on the quality of their best friendships and their feelings of loneliness. Multiple regression analyses revealed that altruism consistently predicted higher levels of positive friendship qualities, such as companionship, help, closeness, and emotional security, and lower levels of loneliness. Concern for others predicted greater emotional closeness, lower conflict, and reduced loneliness. However, it has, unexpectedly, also predicted lower companionship. These findings highlight the distinct roles of altruism and concern in children’s social development. Altruism may promote active engagement and support within friendships, whereas concern may&#xa0;contribute to emotional depth and reduced relational strain. The study underlines the necessity to conceptualize prosocial behavior as a multidimensional construct and emphasizes its relevance to children’s emotional well-being and social integration.</p>

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Understanding the Role of Prosocial Behavior in Children’s Peer Relationships: Implications for Friendship Quality and Loneliness

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年11月19日

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  • Maria Vairami,
  • Marina Aivazidi,
  • Konstantinos Petrogiannis

摘要

This study investigates the associations between two dimensions of prosocial behavior—altruism and concern for others—and children’s perceptions of best friendship quality and feelings of loneliness in middle childhood. The sample consisted of 293 fifth-grade students (M age = 10.4, SD = 0.48) attending public elementary schools in Greece. Altruistic behavior and emotional concern were assessed through self-report questionnaires, while mutual best friendships were identified using peer nominations. Children also reported on the quality of their best friendships and their feelings of loneliness. Multiple regression analyses revealed that altruism consistently predicted higher levels of positive friendship qualities, such as companionship, help, closeness, and emotional security, and lower levels of loneliness. Concern for others predicted greater emotional closeness, lower conflict, and reduced loneliness. However, it has, unexpectedly, also predicted lower companionship. These findings highlight the distinct roles of altruism and concern in children’s social development. Altruism may promote active engagement and support within friendships, whereas concern may contribute to emotional depth and reduced relational strain. The study underlines the necessity to conceptualize prosocial behavior as a multidimensional construct and emphasizes its relevance to children’s emotional well-being and social integration.