Bystander Intervention

While some situations are easily noticeable, many other situations are better characterized as concerning or high-risk behaviors that are likely to escalate to dangerous situations, including:

• offensive comments
• atypical or withdrawn behavior
• controlling behavior in a relationship
• high-risk drinking (e.g., pre-gaming, taking shots, playing drinking games, blacking out, drinking alone).

Sometimes, a person’s gut instinct or intuition can be the best cue that a problem exists. Keep an eye on anything that’s worrying. Don’t ignore the ‘little’ stuff.

Recognize personal responsibility for intervention.

The question here is “do I need to act?” It can be easy to assume that others will intervene so you don’t have to, particularly, if other individuals or departments are charged with keeping the community safe

We are more likely to recognize the situation as requiring our help if:

1. No one else is around;
2. We can relate to the issue on a personal level, such as if our friend/family member is in danger;
3. We would want help if we were in that position; and/or
4. We understand the impact the situation could have if it continues.

The next step is interpreting the situation as a problem in need of intervention.

• Is the person acting drunker than they are, or are they actually intoxicated?
• Are people who are standing close together being consensually affectionate, or is one being intimidating or aggressive towards the other?
• Has a friend seemed depressed for more than a week or two?

You may have to gather more information, for example by:

• observing the situation
• checking in verbally
• asking someone else what they’ve seen

You may not be the person who needs to take direct action, but by identifying problems, you can help put the right solutions in place.

Who’s in the best position to act?

• Call on friends, allies, hosts, authority figures—or do something yourself.
• When’s the best moment? Now? Later? Do you need time to plan or to organize others?

Be creative and strategic.

Tips to protect yourself during interventions:

• Ask your friends to help.
• Approach others in a friendly manner.
• Avoid using violence.
• Call 911 or Public Safety for help if violence or harm seems unavoidable.

After you feel safe, you can focus on keeping a friend, acquaintance, or stranger safe, too. Taking action on one another’s behalf is how we create a vibrant, healthy, and engaged community. When you intervene effectively, the rewards are significant – for you and for our campus.

Make It Happen- Stay calm.

Act even if you feel awkward or nervous. Use the communication style that is most fitting for the situation.