What is the bystander effect?

The bystander effect refers to the social psychological phenomenon whereby individuals are less likely to offer help to a victim when other people are present. This effect is attributed to various factors, including diffusion of responsibility, where individuals assume that someone else will take action, thereby decreasing their own likelihood of intervening.

When people are alone, they often feel a stronger sense of personal responsibility to act, which contrasts with the scenario where they are in a group setting. In the presence of others, individuals may look to each other for cues on how to respond, often resulting in inaction if no one else is helping. This phenomenon highlights important dynamics in group behavior and can lead to significant consequences in emergency situations.

Understanding the bystander effect is crucial for recognizing how social influences can impact individual actions, especially in critical moments where assistance is needed.