Study reveals if altruism contributes to better health outcomes
New research indicates that acts of altruism not only benefit recipients but also improve the physical and mental well-being of those who give. Researchers at the University of British Columbia and Georgetown University have found that activities like volunteering, charitable giving, and blood donation positively affect both givers and receivers, even when givers expect nothing in return. “Finding joy in helping others is fundamental to who we are as a species,” said Elizabeth Dunn, professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia. A 2008 study led by Dunn demonstrated that people who spent money on others reported greater happiness