Bystander Intervention
– No One Should Have to Stand Against Sexual Misconduct Alone –
What is a Bystander?
A bystander is someone who is present and onlooking an event, specifically related to abuse, but is not a participant.
The Bystander Effect
When there are multiple people surrounding a victim, there is less of a chance for someone to step in and help because they assume someone else will.
The Four D’s to Bystander Intervention
Never Assume! Be the one to take a stand!
The A.B.C. Approach
Assess for safety. Make sure all parties are safe and take notice if the authorities need to be contacted. Your safety is the priority, if the situation is dangerous call for help.
Contact LUPD or call 911
Be with other people. If it is safe to intervene your influence will be greater with another person or with a group of people. Your safety is also increased when you are with a group of people that you know.
Care for the person at risk. Ask the person if they are okay. Assess if they need medical attention and seek additional aid. Provide support by giving them information about the OEC or contacting law enforcement and be willing to be a witness to the event.
What hurts the victim most is not the cruelty of the oppressor, but the silence of the bystander.