Gender differences in social support in the decision to volunteer

This paper reports the results of a study that examines gender differences relating to social influences and norms when individuals are making the decision to volunteer. Specifically, this paper examines gender differences in reciprocity and collaboration in initiating volunteer service. An online questionnaire was used to collect data (N=742). The results were significant and supported the hypotheses. Females are more likely than males to expect reciprocation in volunteer recruitment by individuals within their social networks. Females are more likely than males to seek social support when initiating volunteer service. Managerial implications and suggested areas of future research are discussed. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.