Bystander Effect

🧠 Psych - 81 / 100

Hey, there.

Today, we will be talking about the Bystander Effect.

What is it?

A social psychological theory that states that individuals are less likely to offer help to a victim when there are other people present.

Examples -

The bystander effect occurs when the presence of others discourages an individual from intervening in an emergency situation, against a bully, or during an assault or other crime.

Where does it occur?

The greater the number of bystanders, the less likely it is for any one of them to provide help to a person in distress.

People are more likely to take action in a crisis when there are few or no other witnesses present.

Why do I need to know?

It’s natural for people to freeze or go into shock when seeing someone having an emergency or being attacked. This is usually a response to the fear that you are too weak to help, that you might be misunderstanding the context and seeing a threat where there is none, or even that intervening will put your own life in danger.

Some psychologists suggest that simply being aware of this tendency is perhaps the greatest way to break the cycle. When faced with a situation that requires action, understand how the bystander effect might be holding you back and consciously take steps to overcome it. However, this does not mean you should place yourself in danger.

Takeaways: -

1. One technique is to behave as if one is the first or only person witnessing a problem.

2. Don’t expect others to be the first to act in a crisis—just saying “Stop” or “Help is on the way” can prevent further harm. Speak up using a calm, firm tone. Give others directions to get them involved in helping too.

3. Do your best to ensure the safety of the victim, and don’t be afraid to seek assistance when you need it.

References & Studies: -

1. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/bystander-effect

2. https://www.verywellmind.com/the-bystander-effect-2795899

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