Complementing each other: a topological analysis of prosocial behaviors and meaning in life among master's degree students in medical schools: based on longitudinal tracking data

Abstract The complex and multidimensional internal attributes of prosocial behavior, as crucial aspects of the growth of contemporary graduate students in medical schools, have not yet been systematically explored. Using a network analysis approach to explore the core features, dynamic evolution, and external associations of graduate students in medical schools’network adaptation, this study explored the interrelationships between prosocial behaviors and meaning in life among graduate students inmedical schools. It was found that there is a bidirectional facilitative relationship between the two, with individuals with high meaning in life being more likely to engage in prosocial behaviors, which in turn enhances the individual's meaning in life. Among them, altruistic behavior is the core dimension of prosocial behavior, which is closely related to anonymity, emotions,and the public. In addition, prosocial behaviors showed dynamic changes over time, with helping behaviors in emergency situations being a significant predictor of subsequent altruistic and emotional behaviors.