Lauren was talking to a classmate about emergency situations in which a person needs help right away. She said that everyone knows that a person is better off if there are a lot of people around to help because there is strength in numbers. From this, she concluded that if someone is in trouble, that person is much more likely to be helped when there is a crowd around than if there is just one other person available to help. Which kind of evidence is Lauren using?
A) Commonsense belief based on a psychological misconception
B) A statement from authority that is not identified
C) An anecdote about situations in which someone needs help that may be unique
D) Empirical evidence collected in psychology experiments

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lauren is using a commonsense belief based on a psychological misconception that assumes that more people around in an emergency situation will result in a quicker and more effective response. There is actually empirical evidence that suggests that the presence of a large group of bystanders can actually reduce the likelihood of an individual receiving help. This phenomenon is known as the bystander effect.

Lauren Was Talking to a Classmate About Emergency Situations in Which