A Guide for Bystanders on How to Act, Speak, and Protect Others
Have you ever witnessed something wrong and felt unsure of what to do? You’re not alone. As a bystander, you have incredible power, which is the power to step in and change the outcome of any situation.
You don’t have to stand by and do nothing; you can speak up, offer support, or get help. Your actions matter more than you think, whether against bullying, harassment, or abuse. This article aims to help you recognize your influence and power as a bystander and how you can make a real difference by speaking up.
Learn simple, meaningful ways you can take action when it matters most.
Who is a Bystander?
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a bystander is someone who is present but not actively taking part in a situation or event. A bystander may witness something wrong but feel unsure about what to do, assume someone else will act, or be afraid to step in.
At some point, you could find yourself in this position. You might witness abuse toward a stranger, family member, or friends, or hear about it from someone you know. You could also notice changes in someone's behavior that suggest they are being abused. As a bystander, you have the power to stop abuse.
Why Bystander Intervention Matter
The idea that bystanders have a role in preventing intimate partner violence (IPV) is becoming more common in policies around the world. Countries like the United States and Australia have recently introduced strategies that encourage bystander intervention.
In 2017, the U.S. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control highlighted the importance of building protective communities to promote positive bystander actions that can help stop violence.
Similarly, Australia’s national policy sees an increase in community willingness to intervene when witnessing disrespect or violence against women as a key success measure. In 2016, the Australian Government committed AUD$3.3 million to develop resources supporting safe bystander actions.
Bystanders play a crucial role by stepping in before, during, or after abusive behavior. We all have a voice, and by using it, we can show that abuse, harassment, and disrespect have no place in our communities.
Roles of Bystanders and how they can take control of the situation
Bystander intervention plays a powerful role in preventing domestic abuse and creating safer communities. The action you take, whether before, during, or after an incident can help stop abuse, offer support to the victim, and send a clear message that violence is never acceptable. As a bystander, you have the opportunity to prevent or interrupt abuse. Here are some key roles of a bystander:
1. Intervening Before Abuse Escalates
Recognize abuse: the first step to help someone in need is for bystanders to recognize the signs of domestic abuse, whether physical, emotional, verbal, or financial. Understanding these signs ensures you can step in and offer support when needed.
Promote awareness: this involves educating others about the signs and impacts of domestic abuse. By sharing knowledge and starting conversations, bystanders help create a culture that doesn’t tolerate violence and encourages everyone to stand up for respect and safety.
Call out disrespectful behavior: you can step in early by addressing disrespectful or harmful language and actions before they escalate into violence. Speaking up calmly, setting clear boundaries, or showing disapproval can make a big difference. Small actions like these can help challenge and prevent abuse.
Challenge social norms: by speaking out against abuse and challenging harmful attitudes, bystanders can play a powerful role in changing the culture around them. Always speak up against jokes, comments, or actions that excuse abuse. When you call out disrespect or stand up for what is right, it sends a strong message that abuse will not be accepted, which helps build safer communities.
De-escalate arguments: as a bystander, you can help by interrupting arguments or conflicts that seem likely to escalate into violence. Sometimes, a simple distraction, a calm comment, or offering support can de-escalate the situation and prevent abuse before it happens.
2. Intervening During Abuse
Distract or disrupt the abuser: bystanders can help by distracting the abuser or disrupting the situation. Simple actions like starting a conversation or creating a diversion to give the victim a chance to leave safely or seek help can go a long way.
Call for help: bystanders can take action by calling the police, reaching out to a domestic violence hotline, or finding other ways to involve professional assistance. Getting help from trained responders is often the safest way to protect the person at risk and prevent further harm.
Offer support to the victim: you can support someone experiencing abuse by offering emotional comfort, practical help, or simply being there to listen. Sometimes, knowing they are not alone can make a big difference and give them the strength to seek further help.
3. Intervening After Abuse
Provide emotional support: bystanders can offer empathy, understanding, and a safe space for the victim. You can listen without judgment, show care, and reassure the person that they are not alone. Simple acts of kindness, patience, and compassion can help the victim feel heard, valued, and supported during a difficult time.
Help the victim find resources: Bystanders can help the victims find support services, such as shelters, counseling centers, or legal aid organizations. Providing resources and guidance can make the victims feel safe, supported, and less alone.
Report abuse to authorities: when you witness abuse, you can report it to the police or other relevant authorities when necessary. This can help protect the victim and prevent further harm. It is important to act when necessary to keep everyone safe.
Final Thought
Anyone can be a bystander at any point in their lives, but the choice to take action or stand by and do nothing depends on us and can make a huge difference. Always remember that doing the little you can to help is better than watching. As opposed to being bystanders who take no action, we are hoping to create a culture of zero tolerance for domestic violence for all members of our community.
Have you ever stepped in to help? What happened? What do you think you could have done differently?
Every voice matters.
Every action counts.
Together, we can end domestic abuse.