What is the bystander effect, and why does it occur? by Alexandra Cromer, LPC | Jun 5, 2023 | Mental Health Topics, Psychology There’s an old woman sitting on a bench, sobbing loudly into her hands. Surrounding her are countless people: a man sitting on the bench next to her, a few people standing at a nearby bus stop, and many walking right by. While some clearly notice the distressed woman, nobody asks…