Revisiting the Relationship between Altruism and Organ Donation: Insights from Israel

Abstract

The number of people on the waiting list for an organ transplant increases year after year. However, the number of donated organs available for transplantation does not rise in line with this increased demand. This study examines the associations between altruism, attitudes towards organ donation, and behavioral intentions regarding organ donation within the Jewish population in Israel. In a cross-sectional study, 452 participants completed an online questionnaire. Data collection occurred between November and December 2020. Convenience sampling was used, and participation was voluntary. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlations and independent samples t-tests. Within the study population, we found high levels of altruistic behaviors and positive attitudes toward organ donation. However, the level of behavioral intentions toward organ donation was low. No associations were found between altruism levels and attitudes toward organ donation, or between altruism levels and the degree of behavioral intentions toward organ donation. However, a positive relationship was found between attitudes toward organ donation and willingness to sign an organ donor card. In addition, positive associations were found between religiosity and altruism, while negative associations were found between religiosity and attitudes towards organ donation, and between religiosity and willingness to sign an organ donor card. Positive attitudes toward organ donation may result in increased organ donation in the future. Thus, raising awareness and positive attitudes toward organ donation among the wider public and, in particular, the ultra-Orthodox population in Israel in particular is necessary. Consequently, it is essential that information about the organ donation process is accessible and culturally adaptive to different sectors.

Keywords: altruism; behavioral intentions; organ donation; religiosity; transplantation.