Steps For Effective Bystander Intervention
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Steps For Effective Bystander Intervention

Bystander intervention is the act of stepping in to prevent or stop inappropriate, harmful, or dangerous behavior. This approach can make a significant difference in various situations, from stopping bullying to preventing potential assaults. Understanding how to intervene safely and effectively is crucial for creating a safer, more supportive community. Here, we will explore different…

What is a Bystander?
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What is a Bystander?

A bystander is anyone who witnesses an event/incident happen. Bystanders can observe a variety of situations, ranging from a minor disagreement to serious emergency. Their actions–or inactions– significantly affect the outcome of the situation.  Understanding the Bystander 1 The Bystander Effect The bystander effect is a social phenomenon where people do not intervene in a…

The Bystander Effect and Why We Fail to Act
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The Bystander Effect and Why We Fail to Act

What is the Bystander Effect? The concept of the bystander effect 1 was popularized by social psychologists in 1964 following the infamous murder of Kitty Genovese. Kitty was brutally attacked outside her apartment in New York City. It was reported that dozens of neighbors either witnessed the attack or heard her cries for help, yet…

Why Do People Victim-Blame?
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Why Do People Victim-Blame?

To victim-blame is to explicitly state or imply that the person who experienced a crime or an act of violence is fully or partially to blame for what happened. Survivors of sexual assault face victim-blaming that is more stigmatizing and silencing than those who are victims of other crimes.1 The intensity of victim-blaming can also…

What is The Red Zone?

What is The Red Zone?

The first months of college before students return home for Thanksgiving break are meant to be an inspiring, formative experience for young people around the country. However, amongst all of the excitement, are also more sexual assaults happening around campus.  This period, known as “The Red Zone,” is when 50% of all college sexual assaults…

Accessibility for Survivors with Disabilities
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Accessibility for Survivors with Disabilities

Approximately 15% of the global population has a disability.1 Victim-survivors of sexual violence living with disabilities, invisible and/or visible, often face unique barriers through societal biases, systemic barriers, and a lack of accessible resources.  The Marginalization of Disabled Survivors Victim-survivors living with disabilities face disproportionately high rates of sexual violence.2 People with disabilities (PWD) are…