Which factor contributes to bystander apathy in emergencies?

Bystander apathy, the phenomenon where individuals are less likely to help someone in distress when other people are present, is significantly influenced by the feeling of reduced personal responsibility within a group. When more bystanders are present, individuals tend to assume that someone else will take action or that the situation is not as serious as it might appear. This diffusion of responsibility can lead to inaction, as people feel less accountable for stepping in.

In contrast, the presence of only one observer typically results in quicker intervention, since that observer feels the full weight of responsibility for helping. A desire to witness outcomes does not directly contribute to bystander apathy; rather, it might motivate some to observe rather than intervene. Lastly, clearly defined roles among bystanders do not inherently mitigate apathy; instead, they can also complicate the sense of responsibility and the decision-making process in emergencies. Thus, the key factor contributing to bystander apathy is the tendency to feel less personally responsible when others are present.