Resources

Bystander Intervention on Campus: Interpersonal Violence/Sexual Assault

Published by: Sherry Hamby, Robert Eckstein

Bystander intervention is a promising innovation in violence prevention and research on its utility in the context of many different forms of violence has increased over the past ten years. It is a promising approach to bullying reduction as well as for addressing sexual assault and relationship abuse. This webinar discusses what bystander intervention is including what research says about the potential importance of bystanders for violence prevention. Current patterns of bystander behavior from one large community sample are presented. These show that, among other findings, most violence is witnessed (except sexual assault) but responses vary and although many intervene fewer are perceived as helpful. Faculty provide examples of bystander prevention strategies and summarize some research about their effectiveness. Examples are drawn from research on bullying, campus sexual assault, and preventing child sexual abuse. Practitioner bystander intervention strategies are discussed.

Related resources

Preparing for the Holidays: Helpful Tips and Resources

by Sharonna Lee, Esther Aparicio, and Diana Griffin As the holiday season fast approaches, many families look forward to moments…

Working With Survivors in Jail: A Manual for Community-Based Advocates

by National Clearinghouse for the Defense of Battered Women staff (November 2009) Updated July 2025 by Sophie Davis and Cindene…

Building a Community Coordinated Response to the Criminalization of Survivors: A Toolkit

(Fall 2025) This Toolkit provides ideas, strategies, and techniques for addressing the need and challenges related to making survivors charged…