Does the Bystander Effect Exist?

The 'bystander effect' is real – but research shows that when more people witness violence, it's more likely someone will step up and intervene.

Is the bystander effect real?

Research suggests that the bystander effect may be present in computer-mediated communication situations. Evidence demonstrates that people can be bystanders even when they cannot see the person in distress.

How common is the bystander effect?

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, a bystander is present at 70 percent of assaults and 52 percent of robberies. The percentage of people who help a victim varies widely, by the type of crime, the environment, and other key variables.