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

In four studies, we adopted a behavioral system approach to understanding prosocial behavior and examined the contribution of caregiving orientations (hyperactivation, deactivation) to various aspects of volunteerism. In Studies 1 and 2, conducted in Italy, we assessed engagement in volunteer activities and motives for volunteering. In Studies 3 and 4, conducted in Israel, we assessed compassion fatigue and changes in life satisfaction and meaning following sustained volunteer service. Caregiving deactivation was associated with less engagement in volunteer activities and more compassion fatigue. Caregiving hyperactivation was also associated with compassion fatigue, but 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.