1 definition by stevo142
When witnessing a situation of an victim and 'incriminator', the degree of responsibility the witness has in helping the victim or stopping the 'crime' in progress. The degree of responsibility usually depends on three criteria; 1. Whether the victim is deserving of help, 2. The competence of the bystander, 3. The relationship between the bystander and the 'victim'. The bystander can intervene in usually two different ways; direct intervention, or, calling authorities.
I saw an old lady getting her purse taken by some thug, i just stood by and watched... later i felt confused and guilty. The feeling i felt could be described as the bystander effect
by stevo142 July 1, 2013