Crime, Commitment, and the Responsive Bystander: Two Field Experiments

In two field experiments it was demonstrated that bystanders more readily intervene to stop a theft if they have committed themselves in advance to the victim. During the summer of 1972, thefts were staged (a portable radio taken from an unattended beach blanket) at Jones Beach, New York. Subjects agreeing to watch the victim's belongings were more likely to notice the theft, and among those noticing commited subjects were more likely to stop the theft. Similarly, thefts were staged at Automat cafeterias in New York City (a suitcase taken while the owner was absent). Again, committed subjects were more likely to stop the theft. Results are taken as support for the notion that while conflict often prevents bystanders from intervening, prior commitment simplifies the decision process and produces a more responsive bystander.