EXAMINING THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN EMPATHY, SOCIAL SUPPORT, AND PROSOCIAL BEHAVIOR AMONG EARLY ADULTS

Abstract

This study examines the correlation between empathy, social support, and prosocial behavior in early adulthood, emphasizing gender disparities. Data was collected from 270 participants using correlational research design and convenience sampling at the University of Malakand. Data gathering utilizes standardized questionnaires including TEQ, MSPSS, and PBS. Strong significant relationships were identified between empathy and prosocial behavior (r= 0.69, p<0.01) and between social support and prosocial behavior (r=0.56, p<0.01). The findings indicate that empathy and social support are essential determinants of prosocial behavior in early adults, with significant gender differences observed. T-tests were performed to investigate gender disparities in prosocial behavior, indicating that females exhibited significantly greater empathy than males (t = 3.516, p < .01). In contrast, both genders demonstrated comparable scores on the prosocial behavior scale (t = 5.548, p < .01). The research underscores the significance of cultivating empathic and supportive environments to promote prosocial behavior in this demographic.