CAP Philanthropic Psychology & Donor Motivation

Question 1

According to the CAP curriculum's treatment of donor motivation, which factor most consistently drives transformational charitable gifts?

Accepted Answer

Values alignment between the donor's core beliefs and the organization's mission

Answer

Research consistently shows that values alignment—the degree to which a donor's personal values match the organization's mission—is the most reliable predictor of major and planned giving.

Question 2

Paul Schervish's hyperagency concept describes:

Accepted Answer

The ability of high-net-worth individuals to direct large-scale social change through their philanthropic choices

Answer

Schervish's hyperagency theory describes the unique capacity of the very wealthy to directly shape social outcomes through philanthropy—their resources allow them to act as agents who create the social world rather than simply responding to it.

Question 3

Family philanthropy discussions often surface tensions between generations. Which approach does the CAP curriculum recommend for navigating intergenerational differences in philanthropic priorities?

Accepted Answer

Facilitate structured family conversations that identify shared values while accommodating diverse interests through multiple giving vehicles

Answer

The CAP approach recommends structured family philanthropy conversations that identify shared values and use flexible vehicles such as family foundations and DAFs to honor both unity and individual autonomy.

Question 4

The warm glow theory in behavioral economics, as applied to charitable giving, suggests that:

Accepted Answer

Donors derive personal utility from the act of giving itself, independent of the impact of the gift

Answer

Warm glow theory posits that donors gain intrinsic utility—personal satisfaction—from the act of giving itself, not just from the public good produced, explaining why people give even when they could free-ride.

Question 5

When advising a client on philanthropic legacy planning, which element is most essential to address according to CAP curriculum?

Accepted Answer

Articulating the donor's philanthropic identity, values, and vision for impact beyond their lifetime

Answer

CAP curriculum prioritizes the articulation of philanthropic identity—who the donor is, what they care about, and what legacy they want to create—as the foundation for all technical planning decisions.

(CAP) Certified Philanthropic Advisor Practice Test

(CAP) Certified Philanthropic Advisor Practice Test

CAP Philanthropic Psychology & Donor Motivation