A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

What was the ratio of help given to ill victims versus drunk victims according to Piliavin et al's quantitative findings?

1. 95% to 50%

2. 70% to 30%

3. 80% to 20%

4. 65% to 35%

The correct answer is: 95% to 50%

The correct ratio of help given to ill victims versus drunk victims, according to Piliavin et al.’s study, indicates that people are more likely to assist individuals perceived as genuinely in need—as represented by the ill victims—compared to those perceived as drunk. The finding that 95% of ill victims received help contrasted starkly with the 50% assistance rate for those deemed drunk. This significant difference illustrates a key aspect of Piliavin's research, highlighting social perceptions in altruistic behaviors and the impact of a person’s perceived need on the likelihood of receiving help in emergency situations. In Piliavin et al.'s experiment, the participants displayed a clear tendency to respond more favorably to individuals who appeared sick rather than those who were drunk, suggesting that societal attitudes towards illness versus intoxication play a crucial role in decision-making processes related to offering help. This ratio directly reflects the overarching themes of the research, such as the influence of situational factors and the characteristics of the victim on bystander intervention.