In our prevention programs, we like to talk a lot about being a good bystander, or as we like to say, an “upstander.” While bystander intervention is important anywhere, it is especially important on college campuses given the prevalence of alcohol abuse and sexually violent crimes.  Intervention is the last line of defense, and it’s crucial for those who have an opportunity to stop violence to do so. We know it isn’t always easy always easy to break-up a potentially harmful and dangerous situation, so we want to share some resources and pointers with you:

1. Virginia Tech Bystander Playbook

Virginia Tech has compiled a great resource called the “Bystander Intervention Playbook” which models different intervention techniques after different sports plays. They hit the highlights of classic intervention techniques including distraction and group intervention.

2. Step Up

Step Up provides several scenarios and questions to consider about why you should intervene in a potential sexual assault.

3. Us!

We are able to provide training to your campus group, class or residence hall on how to be an upstanding bystander. We talk about different techniques that can be used and go through potential scenarios, as well as why you should intervene. If you would like to schedule a program or learn more about what we have to offer, please email us at prevention@rcasa.org.

As a final note, it’s important to stress that you should never intervene in a situation where you feel your own safety is at risk. Instead, call the police or campus security.