The effect of social anxiety on prosocial behavior of college students: the mediating role of interpersonal security and the moderating role of basic psychological need satisfaction

Abstract

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of social anxiety on prosocial behavior and the role of interpersonal trust and basic psychological needs satisfaction in it. Methods The study utilizes a questionnaire (N = 458) to investigate the impact of social anxiety on prosocial behavior, as well as the mediating role of interpersonal security and the moderating role of basic psychological needs satisfaction. Results (1) the level of social anxiety negatively predicts prosocial behavior; (2) interpersonal security mediates the impact of social anxiety on prosocial behavior, as higher levels of social anxiety reduce interpersonal security, thereby decreasing prosocial behavior, (3) In the context of the negative prediction of social anxiety on prosocial behavior, the basic psychological needs satisfaction plays a moderating role. When an individual's level of satisfaction with basic psychological needs is low, the negative impact of social anxiety on prosocial behavior is significantly enhanced. Conclusion These findings reveal a relationship between social anxiety and pro-social behavior and provide strategies for socially anxious individuals to improve prosocial behavior.