How To Overcome the Bystander Effect

If someone was in need of help, would you just look and walk on by? This question seems easy to answer in theory–ofcourse, we are likely to step in and help.

Unfortunately, people not stepping in to help in an emergency are worryingly common. Unlike in Germany, Australia does not impose the 'Duty to Rescue' Law in which people can get fined for not providing first aid and assistance in an emergency situation.

Recently, low rates of bystander CPR have been recorded in some Australian Regions. There may be other reasons that affect the said rate–but most times, a person’s reluctance in bystander CPR is unwarranted.

What exactly is ‘bystander effect’? 

The bystander effect is about the reluctance of bystanders to help in an emergency, including a first aid emergency. It is a social psychological phenomenon where bystanders are less likely to offer help to a victim when other people are present.

Previous studies had proven that the greater the number of people present in the same environment; the less likely people are to help a person in distress. Many people still conform to the social norm of “no one else is stepping forward, so why should I?"

Can you break the bystander effect trap? 

The fact that you are reading this blog is a good sign that you are more likely to help and encourage others too. Simply being aware of the tendency is perhaps the best way to break the cycle. Understand how the bystander effect might be holding you and other people from stepping in.

In order to avoid falling into the bystander effect trap, make conscious efforts such as:

• Brush up on first aid Knowing the basic first aid procedures gives a person enough confidence to take action. Taking first aid classes and receiving CPR training will certainly help you feel more competent and prepared to deal with potential emergencies. First Aid is easy to learn and easy to do. Don't let your lack of knowledge stops you from helping those in need.

• Do not worry about the consequences of helping The fear of getting sued should be crossed out of your things to worry about. If you are delivering first aid or CPR in an emergency situation, you are most likely protected by the law. Good Samaritan Law in Australia protects people who want to provide help in good faith with no rewards or incentives in mind.

• Get others to take action with you Overcome the barriers by being the first one to step forward and help. Your initiative will encourage others to also step forward – and one of them might know first aid. If you are not quite sure what do in a situation, respond immediately by calling 000 for help and follow the instructions of the dispatcher.

Bystander or Lifesaver? 

At the end of the day, it’s you who will decide whether you want to be a mere bystander or a lifesaver. Someone has to stand up first to break the bystander effect. Let that be you.