Altruism

Active concern for others' welfare. Altruism is one of six facets of agreeableness in the Big Five personality model. The trait describes a broad tendency; facets show how it plays out in everyday behaviour.

How agreeable are you?

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30 questions · about 7 minutes

High vs low altruism

High altruism

Typical behaviours

  • Helps others
  • Generous
  • Self-sacrificing

Real-world examples

  • Volunteers who devote time to charitable causes
  • People who go out of their way to help strangers
  • Those who sacrifice personal interests for others

Low altruism

Typical behaviours

  • Self-focused
  • Reluctant to help
  • Independent

Real-world examples

  • Self-focused individuals who prioritize own needs
  • People who help when convenient
  • Those who believe in self-reliance over assistance

Other facets of agreeableness

How agreeable are you?

The personality test scores you on all five Big Five traits, including agreeableness.

Take the personality test

30 questions · about 7 minutes