The Quality of Social Networks: Its Determinants and Impacts on Helping and Volunteering in Macao

Pro-social behaviors serve essential societal functions. This study examines the factors affecting the quality of social networks, in terms of network size and perceived respect. It further explores the role of social networks in enhancing helping intention and helping behaviors. Eight hundred and eighty people were randomly interviewed by phone. Results indicated that the level of social participation, trust, and social identification were positively related to the quality of the social networks. A better social network was related to a higher level of helping intention and longer hours of volunteer works.