A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

Which city was rated as the most helpful in Levine et al. findings?

1. New York

2. Kuala Lumpur

3. San Jose

4. Rio De Janeiro

The correct answer is: San Jose

In Levine et al.'s study, San Jose was identified as the city where people were most willing to help others in need. The research aimed to understand variations in prosocial behavior across different cultures and urban settings. By using a series of test scenarios, such as dropped pen or helping individuals with directions, the study measured how willing individuals were to assist strangers. San Jose stood out for its notably high rates of helpfulness, likely due to a combination of factors such as local cultural values that prioritize community and assistance, as well as social norms that encourage prosocial behavior. The findings highlighted the importance of context and environment in influencing behavior, showcasing that certain cities foster a greater sense of altruism among their residents.