A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

What significant event in 1964 led to an interest in the bystander effect?

1. A car accident

2. The murder of Kitty G.

3. A public protest

4. A fire incident

The correct answer is: The murder of Kitty G.

The murder of Kitty Genovese in 1964 is a pivotal event that sparked significant interest in the bystander effect. Kitty Genovese was attacked and murdered outside her apartment in New York City, and reports indicated that numerous witnesses observed the assault but failed to intervene or call for help during the prolonged attack. This led to widespread public fascination and concern, ultimately prompting psychological research into why individuals in emergencies often do not help others. The bystander effect refers to the phenomenon where the presence of others discourages an individual from intervening in an emergency situation. The case of Kitty Genovese illustrated this concept vividly, as it raised important questions about social responsibility and the dynamics of group behavior in crisis situations.