Bystander Intervention
A bystander is an individual who notices a behavior or situation that could lead to something bad. Bystanders are then faced with the choice to help, do nothing, or contribute to the negative behavior.
Bystander Intervention involves developing the awareness, skills, and courage needed to intervene in a situation when another individual needs help. Being an active bystander can send powerful messages about what is acceptable behavior in our community.
How to Intervene: The 5-Step Decision Making Model
- Notice the Event
- Interpret it as a Problem
- Assess for Safety (If the scene is not safe, leave immediately and seek help)
- Assume Personal Responsibility
- Know How to Help: The Three D's
The Three D's:
- Be Direct: Step in when something doesn't look right. Share your concerns and offer assistance.
- Delegate: It can be intimidating to approach a situation alone. Enlist another person to support you.
Ask someone to come with you to approach the person at risk. When it comes to expressing concern, sometimes there is power in numbers. Get others to assist with the situation, or call for help from Campus Police.
- Distract: Divert attention from the situation, allowing those at risk to move to safety.
Why Should You Step Up?
Your Actions Matter.
Whether or not you were able to change the outcome, by stepping in you are helping
to change the way people think about their role in preventing sexual assault/violence.
If you suspect that someone you know has been sexually assaulted, there are steps
you can take to support that person.