Which concept refers to the expectation that helping others will lead to receiving help in the future?

The concept that refers to the expectation that helping others will lead to receiving help in the future is known as the Norm of Reciprocity. This social norm suggests that individuals feel a social obligation to return favors or assistance given to them. When one person helps another, there is an implicit understanding that this act of kindness or support creates a bond or obligation, which makes it more likely that the recipient will help the original helper should the need arise.

This norm is a fundamental aspect of social interactions and is thought to promote cooperative behavior within groups and communities. It helps to build trust and social connections, establishing a cycle of mutual support that is beneficial for both individuals and society at large.

While concepts like the Norm of Altruism, Social Exchange Theory, and Mutualistic Behavior discuss various aspects of helping behavior and social interactions, they do not specifically encapsulate the reciprocal expectation embedded in helping others as succinctly as the Norm of Reciprocity does.