Having More, Asking More, Giving More: Effects of Social Class on Prosocial Behavior in China

Studies on the relationship between social class (subjective perception or a combination of income, education and occupational prestige) and prosocial behavior yield mixed evidence. Moreover, little is known about the situation in China. In the present research, we examined social class with large and representative samples. Data from China Family Panel Studies (N = 33,600) revealed that higher class individuals donated more money, volunteered more time, were more likely to ask for help, be asked for help, and offer help upon request across measured events. These findings challenge the expectations from mainstream psychological literature and the implications are discussed.