How does familiarity with the victim affect bystander intervention?

Familiarity with the victim can affect bystander intervention.

Research has shown that bystanders are more likely to intervene if they are familiar with the victim. This is because familiarity can increase feelings of empathy and responsibility towards the victim. Bystanders may also feel more confident in their ability to help someone they know, as they may have a better understanding of the situation and the victim's needs.

However, familiarity can also have negative effects on bystander intervention. In some cases, bystanders may assume that someone else will help if they know the victim. This is known as the bystander effect, where individuals are less likely to intervene in an emergency situation when others are present. This can be particularly dangerous if everyone assumes that someone else will take action, and no one ends up helping the victim.

Moreover, if the bystander knows the perpetrator, they may be less likely to intervene. This is because they may feel conflicted about taking action against someone they know, or they may fear retaliation from the perpetrator. In some cases, bystanders may even blame the victim for the situation, particularly if they are familiar with the victim's behaviour or personality.

Overall, familiarity with the victim can have both positive and negative effects on bystander intervention. It is important for individuals to recognise these biases and take action to help others in need, regardless of their relationship with the victim or perpetrator.