The Reciprocity Principle: Why We Feel Compelled to Return Favors

Why do we feel the urge to return a favor, even when it wasn’t expected? In this episode of Mind Theory, we explore the Reciprocity Principle, a powerful social norm that drives us to respond in kind when someone does something for us. We’ll dive into how reciprocity influences relationships, business, and persuasion tactics like the “door-in-the-face” technique. Plus, we’ll discuss the potential pitfalls, from imbalances in giving to manipulation, and share tips for navigating reciprocity wisely.