Which concept encompasses the idea of promoting the well-being of others without expecting anything in return?

The concept that embodies the notion of promoting the well-being of others without any expectation of reward is altruism. Altruistic behavior is characterized by selflessness and a genuine concern for the welfare of others. When individuals engage in altruistic acts, they often do so purely out of empathy or moral obligation, rather than for personal gain or recognition.

In contrast, the other concepts, such as the reciprocity norm, pertain to reciprocal actions where individuals expect some form of return for their help or kindness. The bystander effect involves the phenomenon where individuals are less likely to help a victim when other people are present, primarily due to the diffusion of responsibility. Social exchange theory suggests that human relationships are formed and maintained based on the perceived costs and benefits, meaning that helping behaviors are often motivated by the expectation of a favorable outcome for oneself.

Understanding altruism is crucial in social psychology as it highlights the capacity for selfless concern in human interactions, standing out among social behaviors that are often motivated by self-interest.