Suppose someone says, "Everyone knows that there is safety in numbers, so a person is more likely to be helped when there are more people around to help." A person saying this is using a:
A) rumor to support an incorrect conclusion.
B) personal experience to support a correct conclusion.
C) statement of an authority to support a wrong conclusion.
D) commonsense belief to support a psychological misconception.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This statement is using a commonsense belief to support a psychological misconception. While it may seem like there would be safety in numbers, research has shown that sometimes the presence of others can actually lead to a diffusion of responsibility and decrease the likelihood of someone stepping in to help. This is known as the bystander effect. Therefore, the statement is using a commonly held belief (safety in numbers) to support a misconception about helping behavior.

Suppose Someone Says, "Everyone Knows That There Is Safety in Numbers