What happens when ordinary people become witnesses to upsetting events - such as a theft in progress, the possibility of domestic violence, or the abuse of another citizen's civil rights? Do most people follow the same emotional and psychological patterns when reacting? Is there such a thing as a "normal" reaction? This three-part ABC News series captures raw responses to staged situations with the help of actors and hidden cameras. Whether compelled to take action or to mind his or her own business, each unknowing participant makes a split-second - and often surprising - decision that will interest students of psychology, sociology, and ethics.

Three 50-minute programs:

CONFRONTING DISCRIMINATION AND PREJUDICE
Encourage students to explore biases and stereotypes with this group of ABC News segments. Each scenario puts actors into exchanges with unwitting bystanders, generating a wide range of responses - from overt hostility towards other races and cultures to acts of genuine compassion. Scenes include a bakery clerk's refusal to serve a Muslim woman wearing a headscarf; cruelty towards an overweight woman seated on a boardwalk; a very public argument that threatens to become violent; and a purse-snatching in a crowded square, after which witnesses are asked to view a suspect lineup. Repeating the two latter situations, producers achieve varying reactions among onlookers by switching the races of the actors. #12237
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STANDING UP AS A CITIZEN
Spark class discussion on civic responsibility with this compilation of ABC News segments. Each scenario involves onlookers who - unaware that they are observing actors in staged situations - exhibit a variety of responses, from complacency to outrage. Scenes include flagrant littering at a seaside resort; displays of hypocrisy when the chance to be a Good Samaritan arises; illegal use of a disabled-only spot, even as a truly deserving driver attempts to park there; and another parking-space dispute, this one concerning severe damage to surrounding cars and an offending driver who doesn't care. Viewers will find several opportunities to explore the meaning of good citizenship and the importance of community involvement. #13121

OPPOSING AGGRESSION AND BULLYING
Initiate lectures and class dialogue with this cluster of ABC News segments on violence, aggressive behavior, and crime. In each scenario, actors draw unassuming spectators into tense and often disturbing situations - with a broad spectrum of results. Scenes include intense verbal bullying by three teen girls against one in a very public setting; a racially loaded incident in which three teenagers vandalize an automobile in broad daylight; the theft of a wallet in a crowded restaurant while some onlookers apparently couldn't care less; and an occurrence of the shocking nationwide phenomenon known as bum-bashing, in which a homeless person is attacked for no apparent reason. Each scene is designed to provoke both introspection and group debate. #12454