What are the roles of social norms in bystander intervention?

Social norms play a significant role in bystander intervention by influencing individuals' behaviour in helping situations.

Social norms are unwritten rules that govern behaviour in a society or group. In the context of bystander intervention, social norms can either facilitate or hinder helping behaviour. For instance, the norm of social responsibility suggests that individuals have a moral obligation to help others in need. This norm can increase the likelihood of bystander intervention as it creates a sense of duty to help others.

On the other hand, the norm of diffusion of responsibility suggests that the more people present in a situation, the less responsibility each individual feels to help. This norm can inhibit bystander intervention as individuals may assume that someone else will take responsibility for helping.

Additionally, social norms can also influence the type of help provided. For example, the norm of reciprocity suggests that individuals are more likely to help those who have helped them in the past. This norm can lead to selective helping, where individuals only help those they perceive as deserving of help.

In conclusion, social norms play a crucial role in bystander intervention by shaping individuals' behaviour in helping situations. Understanding these norms can help increase the likelihood of bystander intervention and promote more effective and inclusive helping behaviour.