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MENTAL MODEL · M2222

Bystander Apathy

Bystander Apathy
BehaviorHigh supportSocial Psychology
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

A psychological state of inaction in an individual during an emergency, caused by the perception that others are present. Because each person thinks, 'Since no one else is acting, it must not be serious' or 'Someone else will call for help.'

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

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Activates action. It explains why someone who collapses in a busy area may not be helped. If you are a victim, you must designate a specific person to ask for help; if you are a bystander, being aware of this psychological mechanism can help you break the apathy and become the first to act.

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The sense of responsibility in individuals within a group is diffused: the more others are present, the less likely any particular individual is to act, because responsibility is diluted and the inaction of others is interpreted as 'no intervention needed.'

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bystander_effectZH · Explicit
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