Bystander intervention is a call to action by encouraging people who may not be directly involved in a situation to take a stand. Such actions require noticing the situation; interpreting the event as requiring intervention; assuming responsibility; determining the safest way to help; and confidence in the capacity to help (Darley & Latane, 1968). Alcohol is involved in many cases where an intended victim is too intoxicated to take care of themselves, leaving them in a vulnerable state. Bystanders can step in and provide assistance to someone who could potentially become a victim of sexual assault.The article also includes information about a social marketing campaign that will help local Carroll County establishments to support sexual violence prevention efforts.
Public establishments can get involved by training employees to be diligent and watch for situations that have the potential to lead to a sexual assault. In order to help support restaurants to promote a bystander intervention-friendly environment, Rape Crisis Intervention Service offers bar napkins stating "If you see something, say something — be an active bystander. The napkins are available — free of charge — to all local [Carroll County] food establishments serving alcohol.To read the full article, please click here.
