What is the bystander effect?
The bystander effect occurs when the presence of others discourages a person from intervening in an emergency, against a bully, or during an assault or other crime.
Why is it important for bystanders to act?
Crimes and harmful activity like sexual harassment and hate crime are often under-reported by the victims. The risk is that if it is not addressed then this type of behaviour is normalised. We need to act because this sort of behaviour can escalate and lead to more harm if it is not addressed.
How to be an active bystander
An active bystander (or upstander) means being aware of when someone's behaviour is inappropriate or threatening and choosing to intervene and offer assistance.
- Don't expect others to be the first to act
If you are with others when you witness a crime, your first instinct, and that of the others around you, might be to not intervene. Once someone helps, then others will join in because a new social norm emerges. Be that person who takes the first step to ensure the victim's safety.
- Take responsibility to do something
If you're in a position to help, tell yourself this is now your responsibility. Don’t be influenced by other people who aren’t doing anything. Try not to worry about the consequences of helping. Remember a lot of cruelty and violence is intra-familial, so don't be put off intervening just because you think the people involved are from the same family. Instead, think about the positive impact you can have and the example you set for those around you.
- Encourage others to get involved
Be an influencer. If you need assistance, ask particular people near you to do specific things. Look them straight in the eyes or single out someone by a distinguishing feature – e.g. blue jumper, glasses, pink face mask - and ask for their help. By directly asking someone, there is a good chance they will feel a shared responsibility and take some action.
- Empathise with the victim
People are more likely to help if they identify with a victim. Try imagining the victim is someone you love and ask yourself what you would like others to do to support them in those circumstances.
- A small act of kindness can make a big difference
Asking "Are you okay?" when it’s safe to do so, lets the victim know that you acknowledge what happened to them was unacceptable. This can be reassuring for the victim.
- Call for support
If it is not safe to intervene, call the police.
The more we show concern and choose to be active, rather than passive, bystanders when we think someone may be at risk, the more likely it is we can help prevent crime.
Find out about free bystander training.