When Names Do Not Help: Effects of Anonymity and Locus of Need Attribution on Help-seeking Behavior
The effects of anonymity of the help-seeker and locus of need attribution on help-seeking behavior were investigated. The results indicate that the locus of need attribution affects amount of help-seeking only if the individual remains anonym- ous. When identifiable, the subjects refrained from help-seeking regardless of locus of need attribution. The applied and concep- tual implications of these findings are discussed and the role of anonymity of help-seeker as an important condition in the paradigm of help-seeking behavior is elaborated.