Moreover, the three theoretical perspectives in sociology also portray some reasoning behind the effect. First, the symbolic interactionism theory would most likely suggest that bystander inactivity results when there is a lack of symbolic meaning or communication. They would include that symbols can promote different behavior. Someone walking by two boys fighting may not intend on acting until they recognize their brother as one of the participants. This symbolic relationship would encourage action. This perspective may also be used as a method in protecting a victim in an urgent situation. A victim can use gestures and phrases that would benefit them in a time of need. For instance, if a woman is being robbed and chooses to single out one
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Henslin (2014) describes the conflict theory as, “a theoretical framework in which society is viewed as composed of groups that are competing for scarce resources. “ (p. 18). This explains why a conflict theorist would likely agree with the idea of social prejudice. They would highlight the influence that the class conflict has on people’s decision to intervene. A conflict theorist would insist that criminal activity results from opposing social groups who are struggling to gain power. Additionally, they might argue for example, that the bystander effect occurs because witnesses are quick to form mental presumptions about the event. For instance, if a bystander were to witness two homeless men fighting in the streets, they would be more likely to ignore them versus two men in business attire in a fistfight. All individuals posses presumptions about another individual whether it be negative or positive, and these presumptions though, may result in behavior variation. This explains how some members of society are denied assistance when they need it, while others are immediately attended …show more content…
For example, this perspective would point out how the relationship between children and technology has caused a negative latent function. This combination has exposed children to websites and video games that possess violent and provocative material. This fusion is the source for dysfunction where children mature quickly and are less sensitive to violence, gore and the pain of others. The functional perspective also includes subjects that were discussed earlier such as socialization and anomie. Both these terms involve individuals’ relationship with society and how this relationship can influence behavior. This analysis would suggest that in order to combat the bystander effect, the American society would have to revert back to a less selfish time where people choose to take care of one another, friend or stranger. The current progressive movement has promoted the importance of individual freedom and happiness. However, it has also abandoned many moral and biblical values that encourage the importance of caring for others and loving your neighbor. This idea of social unity has become more and more inexistent in our nation. Instead, people value their own interests over the well- being and safety of others. The way in which individuals react with one another has
Henslin (2014) describes the conflict theory as, “a theoretical framework in which society is viewed as composed of groups that are competing for scarce resources. “ (p. 18). This explains why a conflict theorist would likely agree with the idea of social prejudice. They would highlight the influence that the class conflict has on people’s decision to intervene. A conflict theorist would insist that criminal activity results from opposing social groups who are struggling to gain power. Additionally, they might argue for example, that the bystander effect occurs because witnesses are quick to form mental presumptions about the event. For instance, if a bystander were to witness two homeless men fighting in the streets, they would be more likely to ignore them versus two men in business attire in a fistfight. All individuals posses presumptions about another individual whether it be negative or positive, and these presumptions though, may result in behavior variation. This explains how some members of society are denied assistance when they need it, while others are immediately attended …show more content…
For example, this perspective would point out how the relationship between children and technology has caused a negative latent function. This combination has exposed children to websites and video games that possess violent and provocative material. This fusion is the source for dysfunction where children mature quickly and are less sensitive to violence, gore and the pain of others. The functional perspective also includes subjects that were discussed earlier such as socialization and anomie. Both these terms involve individuals’ relationship with society and how this relationship can influence behavior. This analysis would suggest that in order to combat the bystander effect, the American society would have to revert back to a less selfish time where people choose to take care of one another, friend or stranger. The current progressive movement has promoted the importance of individual freedom and happiness. However, it has also abandoned many moral and biblical values that encourage the importance of caring for others and loving your neighbor. This idea of social unity has become more and more inexistent in our nation. Instead, people value their own interests over the well- being and safety of others. The way in which individuals react with one another has