Abstract
This study provides evidence for the predictive efficacy of Davis's Interpersonal Reactivity Index Perspective-taking scale in identifying those individuals who are more likely to help others. A sample of 162 ethnically diverse working adults (74% female) completed the Perspective-taking scale and an empathy scale and then were given the opportunity to volunteer time to help counsel adults interested in enrolling in college. Participants who volunteered time to help had higher Perspective-taking scores than did those participants who did not offer to help. Moreover, men and women did not differ in their Perspective-taking scores, nor did people from different ethnic backgrounds. Empathy was not significantly related to Perspective-taking or helping.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.