Source: Psychology Today (site: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/basics/bystander-effect)

What is a bystander?

The bystander effect occurs when the presence of others discourages an individual from intervening in an emergency situation, against a bully or during an assault or other crime.

The greater the number of bystanders, the less likely it is for any one of them to provide help to a person in distress. People are more likely to take action in a crisis when there are few or no other witnesses present.

What can we do to help?

The intervention of bystanders is often the only reason why bullying and other crimes cease. The social and behavioral paralysis described by the bystander effect can be reduced through awareness and intervention.

If you witness an act of bullying, verbal assault, or harassment of any kind, just saying "stop" can prevent further harm. You can report the situation where there is cyberbullying, harassment, or inappropriate content by following the prompts from Wattpad Support:

https://support.wattpad.com/hc/en-us/articles/203444030-How-to-Report-a-User

Follow the guidelines in the Wattpad Safety Portal - they're really good and I've used them before:

https://safetyportal.wattpad.com/youth-portal/bullying-and-harassment

Do your best to ensure the safety of the victim, and don't be afraid to seek assistance when you need it.

Is there a legal risk if you try to help someone?

Yes, some people can if they get involved. Fear of legal consequences can be a major contributor to the bystander effect. Some jurisdictions have passed Good Samaritan laws as encouragement for bystanders to act, offering legal protection to those trying to help victims. However, these laws are often limited.

What else can you do to not be a bystander?

Sometimes just checking in to see if someone is okay after the incident happens, and again a few days after, is enough to help a person conquer bullying/harassment.

Let them know how much you appreciate them. A simple act of kindness can help to eradicate so much pain.