According to a clinical psychologist, in times of crisis, social media users will use the platform to highlight what they witnessed in order to gain likes and followers rather than helping those in need. According to Dr. Cassandra Aasmundsen-Fry, individuals are considered to be victims of the “bystander effect” when they do not seek assistance in the face of a crisis but instead assume that someone else will. A socio-psychological theory called the “bystander effect” or “bystander apathy” says that people are less likely to help a victim when other people are around. Cassandra stated, “The more people who witness an event, the more likely it is that someone will assume someone else will help.” It’s common for people to be curious and naturally want to talk about what they’ve seen. However, they are not acting without concern. It is more appropriate to say that they lack responsibility as the incident does not concern them.
She stated to the Sun, “There are some people who are likely to post videos of events such as car crashes or robberies on social media to gain hits and followers.” Cassandra stated that individuals frequently support their views on social issues by posting news and personal experiences on social media. Cassandra asserted that people are social creatures who rely on others to establish safety, feel supported, and generate positive emotions. “It is becoming more common for people to express themselves on social media when it comes to controversial and emotional content as it helps them feel empowered to act.
“In this way, the person copes with emotions and tries to help others by furthering a cause.”
Cassandra asserted that social media has advantages and disadvantages. It’s admirable that it could connect people, especially those who have trouble making personal connections with others. “Many people have been able to build friendships and find a way to express themselves through social media. However, when comparing their lives to those of others on social media, some people may feel more isolated or depressed,” she stated. However, Cassandra stated, “Some content could serve to raise awareness of an issue the community is facing.” Posting content about an event on social media is not always a bad thing. For instance, advising others on how to avoid being kidnapped or attacked. “Sometimes social media posts provide overlooked details that could be crucial in a criminal case. However, sensitive and private information ought to be provided directly to the police. “There is a vast difference between sharing a video of a road crash to raise awareness and posting insensitive materials like pictures of injured victims and those in pain.
“Such pictures should be used with permission to raise awareness of an important issue,” she said.
Cassandra asserted that the distance created by social media dehumanizes the suffering of others. “It is better to be safe than sorry in the event of an incident. Ten requests for assistance are much preferable to none at all. Ask yourself why you feel the need to post about events you have witnessed if you do so. Does it help others or raise awareness of a cause?
