Ways to Intervene
Culture does not change itself, and every time we intervene on instances that cause harm- whether we are interrupting a hateful joke, challenging a behavior that has crossed a person’ s boundary, or ensuring someone is safe, we create a healthier campus at TXST. Bystander Intervention is not just about helping in challenging moments, but also challenging social norms. There are many ways to intervene, just like there are many ways to enjoy the San Marcos River at Sewell park. How can you intervene to prevent violence on our campus?
Direct
Direct is when we respond by naming the harmful behavior and talking to the person causing harm. Or as we like to say, someone who Dives In to confront the situation and make it stop.
If the situation is safe, talk directly to the person who might be in trouble. You could ask, “Would you like me to stay with you?” or “Do you need help?” It is also important to talk directly to the person who may cause harm. You could ask, “I do not think it’s appropriate to share those videos.”
Delegate
Delegate is when you ask someone else to intervene. Or as we like to say, someone who wants to Slowly Dip in to make a difference.
Approaching a situation alone can be intimidating. Enlist another person or other people to support you. For example, you could enlist a friend of the person you are concerned about. “Your friend looks like they’ve had a lot of drink. Could you check on them?” Or you could ask others to join you when approaching the person who could cause harm. You could start with caring and non-critical language, “Hey, as your friend I don’t think they’re sober enough to have sex and we should find their friends.”
Distract
Distract is when you subtly derail harmful behavior. Or as we like to say, someone who wants to Slowly Dip in to create safety without directly calling out a person.
Interrupt the conversation with a diversion, such as, “Let’s get pizza” or “This party is lame. Let’s go somewhere else.” Spill your drink or start an activity that draws other people in, including the person you are concerned about.
Document/Delay
Document is when you take notes on what is happening that is harmful. Or as we like to say, someone who is observing the situation while Soaking Up the Sun.
Record important details of the incident, such as the date, time, and location, as well as what happened. Ask the person who experienced the harm what they would like you to do with the documentation. Always ask the person experiencing harm if they want you to record instances or take notes. Posting any material online or using the information without their consent can be dangerous to the person experiencing harm and should never be done.
Delay is when you can wait to intervene. Or as we like to say, someone who is Soaking Up the Sun and will help once it feels safer or they have a private moment to check-in with the person.
If a situation is not an emergency, you can check in with them later and see if they're okay and ask them how you can support them. If a situation is too dangerous, refer to a person with more authority, such as a RA, campus security, or an employee. Calling police for some communities does not always feel like the safest option and for non-emergency situations this can be important.
