Relational context effect on sympathy

Abstract

We show that relational context of a stranger in a misfortunate situation can increase observers’ sympathy toward the victim and this relational context effect occurs because observers infer and take the close other’s perspective toward the victim. The current research is based on the traditional causality that perspective-taking enhances sympathy but focuses on the victim’s close other’s perspective, instead of the just the victim’s own perspective. Experiments support the causality and mediation by manipulating the salience of the relational context. This research suggests an alternative strategy for practitioners in the fields of prosocial activities such as charity and donations, to enhance empathy among potential donators.