The Influential Mechanisms of Theory of Mind on Prosocial Behavior and the Effect of Mindfulness Intervention

Background: Theory of Mind (ToM) and empathy are crucial cognitive and emotional capacities that influence social interactions. While their role in promoting prosocial behavior has been established, the potential moderating effect of mindfulness on this relationship remains unexplored. Understanding these complex interactions is vital for developing effective interventions to foster prosocial behavior among college students. This study examines the influence of ToM on college students' prosocial behavior and explores the moderating role of mindfulness in this relationship. Methods: A mixed-methods approach combining questionnaires and experimental design was employed. Study 1: A survey of 759 college students (mean age 22.03 years; 477 females) was conducted using the ToM Scale, Interpersonal Reactivity Index, Prosocial Behavior Tendency Scale, and Mindfulness Awareness Scale. Data were analyzed using correlation and moderated mediation analyses. Study 2: An 8-week mindfulness attention training program was implemented for the intervention group and compared with a control group. Mindfulness training served as a moderating variable to validate Model 59 from Study 1. Results: 1. Study 1 found: (a) ToM was significantly positively correlated with prosocial behavior (r = 0.31, p < 0.01). (b) Empathy partially mediated the relationship between ToM and prosocial behavior (beta = 0.10, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.06, 0.14]). (c) Mindfulness negatively moderated the direct path between ToM and three dimensions of prosocial behavior, as well as the indirect path between empathy and kin altruism and reciprocal altruism. Specifically, high levels of mindfulness weakened the direct impact of ToM on prosocial behavior. High levels of mindfulness also weakened the indirect influence of ToM on prosocial behavior through empathy. 2. Study 2 results showed: (a) The intervention group had significantly higher levels of trait mindfulness compared to the control group (t = 2.56, p < 0.05). (b) The validity of the moderated mediation model 59 from Study 1 was verified. Conclusion: While ToM and empathy play crucial roles in fostering prosocial behavior, mindfulness exhibits a more complex influence than anticipated, potentially inhibiting prosocial behavior under certain circumstances. These findings offer novel insights into the psychological mechanisms underlying prosocial behavior and underscore the importance of considering multiple interacting factors in its promotion.