Abstract
Abstract. Based on the enclothed cognition framework, we tested whether the physical experience of wearing a tunic and identifying it with a nursing scrub may enhance empathic and helping responding, compared to the solely physical experience of wearing the scrub or associating with its symbolic meaning. Results of Study 1 (United Kingdom; n = 150) showed that participants who wore a tunic and identified it with a nursing scrub reported higher empathic concern and helped more in a punctual scenario, compared to the other two conditions. Results of Study 2 (Spain; n = 100) supported findings from Study 1 and showed that participants who wore a tunic and identified it with a nursing scrub volunteered more hours and showed higher response latency for altruistic motivation relevant words. Thus, the current research supports the enclothed cognition framework and shows that it also affects vicarious emotions and prosocial behavior.
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