The contribution of caregiving orientations to volunteering-related motives, costs, and benefits

In four studies, a behavioral system approach was adopted to understand prosocial behavior, and the contribution of caregiving orientations (hyperactivation, deactivation) to various aspects of volunteerism was examined. In Studies 1 and 2, conducted in Italy, engagement in volunteer activities and motives for volunteering were assessed. In Studies 3 and 4, conducted in Israel, compassion fatigue and changes in life satisfaction and meaning following sustained volunteer service were assessed. Caregiving deactivation was associated with less engagement in volunteer activities and more compassion fatigue. Caregiving hyperactivation was also associated with compassion fatigue but was accompanied by heightened engagement and motivation for volunteering, as well as volunteering-related increases in life satisfaction and meaning. The findings were discussed from a behavioral system perspective.