The Bystander Effect

The bystander effect is a social phenomenon where individuals are less likely to offer help in an emergency when others are present. This occurs because people often assume someone else will take action, leading to a diffusion of responsibility. The more bystanders there are, the less likely any one person feels obligated to intervene. Factors such as fear, uncertainty, or social influence can also play a role in inaction. The bystander effect highlights the importance of awareness and personal responsibility in crisis situations.