Pro-social behaviors are those that we can attribute to our superego if we are applying Freudian theory. We engage in behaviors that many consider "good" for social interactions. These behaviors are focused on an external component (person or situation), and the emotive quality is experienced internally. Altruism, gratitude, and forgiveness typically require an external instigation. When we do something for someone else without consideration of personal benefit, we call that altruism. When we acknowledge that we have obtained a positive outcome, we call thatgratitude. When we accept an indication of contrition from someone, we call thatforgiveness. Egotism, on the other hand, is the determination that there will (or could) be a personal benefit if we engage in a behavior (or not). The discussion that rages on is, "Is altruism really non-egotistical?" Meaning, don't most of us (although we may not think of it at the actual time of the behavior) feel "good" when we do something for someone. If so, is there personal benefit --a sense of well-being gained?

Your Task

Main Entry: Post a brief analysis of what you have learned from this week's readings and activities. Start a new thread create in interesting topic tile. Within the body of your post, clearly identify each segment of the required response in order to facilitate discussion development.

4 Topics for Debate:

This week we are going to debate 4 questions. You have been assigned to one of these questions based upon the starting letter of your Last Name. Your task is to develop a well-constructed, pensive response to your assigned question. Support your thought through the integration of points made from the week's Learning Resources and any outside resources you choose.

A - F

How can we cultivate altruistic, grateful, and forgiving attitudes and behaviors in ourselves and/or others? Be specific.

G - L

What is the evidence, beyond our readings this week, that having familiar others near can facilitate the reduction of stress responses? How does it show up in relationships you have witnessed (personal or though depiction by fictional characters - books, movies, etc.)?

M- Q

What were three takeaways you gained from Toward a Positive Psychology of Single Lifeyou think more people should explore as they strive to find balance in their intra - and interpersonal lives?

R - Z

How does positive sexuality, as discussed by Hefferon (2013, found in eReserves), support the development of intimacy, passion, and commitment, as presented by Sternberg (1986)?