Which phenomenon demonstrates that individuals are less likely to assist a victim when other bystanders are present?

The bystander effect is the phenomenon that illustrates how individuals are less likely to help a victim when other bystanders are present. This occurs because the presence of others can lead to a diffusion of responsibility, where each bystander assumes that someone else will take action. As a result, individuals may feel less compelled to intervene, thinking that help will come from others.

The bystander effect highlights an important social psychological concept — that people often look to others for cues on how to behave in a situation. If no one else is reacting or helping, individuals may interpret that as a signal that intervention is not necessary. This concept has been supported by various research studies and real-life events, emphasizing the social dynamics at play in emergency situations. Understanding this effect is crucial for those studying psychology, as it sheds light on human behavior in groups and the factors that influence decision-making in critical moments.