What is a reason informants might cooperate out of gratitude?

Informants might cooperate out of gratitude particularly toward police who helped them because these interactions can significantly influence the informant's circumstances. When a law enforcement officer shows assistance, it can create a sense of loyalty or appreciation in the informant. This gratitude can stem from the officer having either directly assisted the informant in a time of need—such as helping them avoid legal repercussions—or providing assistance during a personal crisis.

The sentiment of gratitude can motivate informants to provide valuable information or cooperate with law enforcement out of a desire to reciprocate the help they received. This relationship often leads to more open communication between the informant and law enforcement, fostering trust and a willingness to assist in investigations.

Other options, while plausible motivators for informants, do not capture the specific context in which gratitude plays a central role in motivating cooperation. The feeling of indebtedness to law enforcement for past assistance is more directly linked to the concept of gratitude.