Which concept explains the reluctance of bystanders to help due to self-consciousness or the fear of negative judgment from others?

The concept of audience inhibition highlights how the presence of others can affect an individual’s willingness to offer help in emergency situations. This concept suggests that bystanders may feel self-conscious or worry about being judged negatively by others, leading them to refrain from taking action. For example, a person may hesitate to intervene in a crisis because they fear that their efforts may be perceived as unnecessary or that they might make a mistake, which could attract negative evaluation from onlookers.

This reluctance can significantly impact the likelihood of assistance being provided during critical moments. The phenomenon underscores the psychological barriers that can arise in social situations, reminding us of the complex interplay between individual emotions and social dynamics.

In contrast, other concepts like diffusion of responsibility focus on how individuals feel less compelled to act when there are more witnesses, not necessarily involving the fear of judgment. The cost-benefit analysis model relates to evaluating the potential risks and rewards of helping versus not helping, while social influence encompasses how individuals are swayed by the actions or opinions of others in various contexts.