Induced Competence and the Bystander Effect1

摘要: Previous research has shown that people are slower to offer help in an emergency when there other bystanders present than not. It was proposed exposing subjects information about treatment of medical emergencies (i.e., experimentally-induced competence) would decrease this effect. Female college students either did or not watch a series public-service films on under the pretext evaluating films' relative effectiveness. Three weeks later, participated experiment which ostensible co-subject experienced choking fit and then fell silent. Subjects who had viewed were respond if they believed themselves be 6-member groups 2-member groups. In contrast, responded quickly regardless perceived group size. High competent also more low condition where another gave evidence being high competence. Results from 6-week follow-up indicated, however, induced competence permanent. Discussion centers theoretical implications findings.