Yeah but...

It has nothing to do with being inconsiderate. Self-centred possibly, if being paralyzed by fear is self-centred.

It's basically a very accusatory culture so unless events would be clear (and the more demanding the situation is of aid, the more clear it'd be, like if you were stopping an assault/rape) people generally shy away, not just from children, but everyone in general, for giving aid.

It's still possible to offer help though, by only talking and keeping a distance.

Women can obviously do this because they are seen as less threatening by society and less often accused of unethical behaviour. Most women aren't lesbians too so it's easier to help a young girl. It'd also be sort of a feminist comradery thing.

A more interesting hypothetical situation would be to include a boy.

Or, in the case of either gender, how about a less attractive child? Or perhaps an elderly person?

I can understand not using a burly adult male who looks to be in distress since in cities those are often entrapments for mugging.

Anyway that definately takes some guts, but really, if a girl asked for help then put into that situation, it'd be pretty hard to say "no" and walk away. I'm not going to chastize for ignoring the crying though, as I'm not even an offender and even I might be inclined to do that due to paranoia. Might go in the store, and if I came out and they were still there give a "hey are you okay?" or something.

One thing that confused me though is that if this was outside a store, why not take the girl into the store and ask the clerk behind the register if they have a phone to call the police rather than take them directly there? It seems unnecessary and unneedingly risky. Not simply for the self but in general, cars are dangerous and if the police misinterpreted it (like if they pulled you over before you brought her to the station) the resulting brooha could be upsetting.