Chapter 5: The Joy of Giving

Many people believe that if they had more time and money, their lives would be better. In fact, scientific research finds that giving away our time and money is beneficial in many ways for givers. This chapter comprehensively reviews the effects of giving on givers, including psychological, social, and physical health outcomes. Psychologically, research finds that giving increases happiness, and that these effects are long-lasting and observable by others. Socially, research finds that giving is contagious and improves the quantity and quality of relationships. Physically, giving positively affects core physiological and health outcomes, including the brain, the cardiovascular system, and pain perception, culminating in increased longevity among givers. Benefits of giving occur throughout the lifespan and across the world, and research finds such benefits even in difficult or traumatic circumstances. The chapter ends by reviewing five key evidence-based practices that can increase the benefits of giving among givers.