Psychology of bystanders

The psychology of bystanders refers to why people sometimes hesitate to help others in need. When a person witnesses an emergency, they may assume someone else will intervene, feel unsure about their own ability to help, or fear judgment. This is known as the "bystander effect," where the presence of others decreases the likelihood of assistance. Factors like ambiguity, diffusion of responsibility, and social influence can all reduce helping behavior. Understanding this psychology encourages awareness so individuals are more likely to act and support those in distress, especially in critical situations.