Agreeableness facet
Altruism: a facet of agreeableness
The altruism facet measures how much you enjoy helping others and go out of your way to do it.
What altruism measures
Altruism is one of six facets of agreeableness. It captures active concern for others' welfare: generosity, helpfulness and willingness to put yourself out for someone else.
It's about action more than feeling. Sympathy, another agreeableness facet, is about being moved by others' needs; altruism is about doing something about it.
High altruism
High scorers get real satisfaction from helping. They volunteer, notice when someone needs a hand and offer it without being asked.
- Offer help before being asked
- Make time for others' problems
- Feel good when helping
- May overextend themselves
Low altruism
Low scorers are more focused on their own tasks and responsibilities. They'll help when asked or when it's clearly their role, but don't go looking for opportunities.
- Focus on their own priorities
- Help when asked rather than unprompted
- Protect their time and energy
Helping without burning out
- Choose where to help rather than saying yes to everything
- Notice when helping has turned into resentment, a sign you've overextended
- Let others help you too
More agreeableness facets
Related guides
Common questions
Is low altruism selfish?
Not necessarily. Low scorers may be protecting their energy or may express care differently, through reliability or practical support when asked.
How does altruism relate to sympathy?
Sympathy is feeling moved by others' needs; altruism is acting on it. They often go together, but not always.
For self-reflection and education only. This isn't a clinical or diagnostic tool and isn't a substitute for professional psychological or medical advice.