confusion of responsibility

the tendency for bystanders to refrain from helping in both emergencies and nonemergencies in order to avoid being blamed by others for causing the problem. This is a contributing factor in the bystander effect. See also diffusion of responsibility.

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Psychology term of the day

January 30th 2025

alternative behavior completion

a technique in behavior therapy for extinguishing unwanted habits by substituting an incompatible behavior for the nondesired behavior (e.g., substituting nail care for nail biting). This technique can be practiced in vivo (see in vivo desensitization) or imaginally in the therapy session or assigned as homework. It is often used as an alternative to mild aversion therapy. See also competing response training.