What is an example of diffusion of responsibility?
What is an example of diffusion of responsibility?
Diffusion of responsibility is a form of attribution in which the individual assumes that other people are responsible for taking an action or have already done so. In other words, diffusion of responsibility is a sociopsychological phenomenon in which a person is less likely to assume responsibility or take an action in a situation where other bystanders are also present.
Researchers have observed that a number of different factors increase or decrease the likelihood of diffusion of responsibility. For example, if the onlookers are not really sure as to what is happening, and are unclear about the emergency, they are less likely to assume responsibility. But the people who assume or feel some connection with the person in trouble or the situation in general, then the person may feel more compelled to take an action.
Darley and Latané were two researchers who noted that once an individual notices that something is happening, few steps are taken by them before taking any action. They identified five major steps that were taken by individuals in general:
- The first step includes noticing the problem or the situation.
- The next step includes the individual deciding whether they are witnessing an actual emergency.
- The third step is very crucial as it involves deciding whether to take a personal responsibility to act or not.
- The next step involves the individual deciding what they need to do.
- The final step is finally taking an action.
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