presocial psychology notes (day 1)

Option to conduct studies during class or outside class time depending on what makes more sense for students.
No class time will be allocated for study-related activities.
Topics to be covered leading up to the next week include aggressive behavior.

Today's format will be traditional lecture.
Future classes will incorporate unique participation points related to submitted studies.

Introduction to the infamous case of Kitty Genovese, highlighting inaccuracies in the narrative.
Kitty Genovese was attacked and killed in a New York neighborhood with potential witnesses who did not respond.
The New York Times reported:
- "For more than half an hour, 38 respectable, law-abiding citizens in Queens watched the killer stalk and stab a woman in three separate attacks in two days."
- Multiple witnesses indicated a concerning absence of response during the assault.
The incident became a catalyst for research into pro-social behavior and the bystander effect.

The research stemming from this case focuses on the concept that the likelihood of intervention decreases with the number of witnesses present, known as the bystander effect.
Criticism of the Genovese narrative highlights inaccuracies regarding the timeline and responses of witnesses, leading to revised understandings in recent years.
The idea that everyday events can stimulate significant research in the social behavior domain is emphasized.

Contradicting narratives of non-intervention is the example of a worker named Wesley who saved a man during a seizure on a subway track.
Wesley intervened despite the severe risks, showcasing extreme pro-social behavior.
The distinction between situations lacking intervention and cases of extraordinary help are noted.

Notice the Event
- Crucial first step; if an individual fails to notice a situation, they will not intervene.
- Factors: distractions and cognitive overload can hinder awareness, particularly during busy or rushed scenarios.
Interpret the Event as an Emergency
- Recognizing the gravity of the situation. If not perceived as an emergency, intervention is unlikely.
- Example studies demonstrate how the presence and behavior of others can impact interpretations, notably through confederate behavior during emergencies such as smoke-filled rooms.
Assume Personal Responsibility
- Individuals must feel a personal obligation to intervene.
- Research illustrates that reminders of personal responsibility elevate intervention rates significantly (e.g., asking a person to watch belongings increased support rates dramatically).
Know How to Assist
- Awareness of necessary actions for assistance is essential; lack of knowledge results in failure to intervene despite the will to help.
- Many potential helpers hesitate if they are uncertain of the right action to take.
Engage in Helping Act
- The final step is executing the help. Various factors can influence whether and how someone helps, including emotional readiness and perceived competence.

Cognitive Load can distract individuals from noticing emergencies.
Past research includes the Good Samaritan Study that highlights the influence of time pressure on helping behavior.
Factors such as informational social influence and pluralistic ignorance illustrate how individuals gauge their reactions based on others' responses in ambiguous situations.

Pluralistic Ignorance: The assumption that others are more informed or competent in a situation, leading to collective inaction among bystanders.
Diffusion of Responsibility: As the number of witnesses increases, individuals feel less personal accountability to help, believing others will take action instead.

A lost letter study shows higher pro-social behavior in rural settings, indicating differences in community dynamics and social norms.
The perceived anonymity in urban environments plays a substantial role in diminishing the likelihood of intervention.

Mood and Emotional State: Positive emotions correlate with increased helping when the help does not threaten to disrupt their mood.
Gender Roles: Situational influences determine when men or women are likely to help; emotional connections often dictate preferences.
Attractiveness and Similarity: Individuals that are perceived as more attractive or those who share certain traits with a potential helper may prompt action.
Demographics: Research points to disparities in helping rates among different racial and socioeconomic groups, revealing complex underlying biases.