Table 1: Benefits to the helper in each altruism theories.
| Theory | Perspective | Benefit to helper |
| Evolutional | Genetic selection for survival of species | Survival of species |
| Equity | Equity in interpersonal relationships | Expect help from others |
| Negative affect | Stimulation by negative emotions | Emotional healing |
| Empathy | Genuine feelings of concern | Appreciation, respect |
| Normative (reciprocity) | "Do unto others as you like them do to you" | Reciprocal expectation of favour |
| Normative (pro-social) | Socio-cultural expectation with antidote | Hidden rewards; unwritten 'penalties vs. reputation' |