Ego depletion and prosocial behavior: The chain mediating effects of subjective vitality and empathy

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of ego depletion on prosocial behavior and the chain mediating role of subjective vitality and empathy in this relationship. We conducted a survey of 381 college students using standardized scales. The results showed that there were significant correlations among ego depletion, subjective vitality, empathy, and prosocial behavior. Further regression analysis and mediation effects tests revealed that the direct effect of ego depletion on prosocial behavior was significant, and the single mediation and chain mediation effects of subjective vitality and empathy in this relationship were also significant. The findings indicate that increasing subjective vitality helps to improve empathy and, thus, prosocial behavior.