You are at a party. Your friend Jane, who is clearly intoxicated, is talking to a cute guy. The guy brings Jane another drink. As he walks by, you hear him say to a friend, “Score. One more drink will be enough to bag this one.” Later, with his arm around her, the guy starts to lead Jane upstairs to his bedroom.
You are at a party. Your friend John is talking to a woman who is clearly intoxicated. John brings her another drink. As he walks by, he says to you, “Score. One more drink will be enough to bag this one.” Later, with his arm around her, John starts to lead the woman upstairs to his bedroom.
Keep Your Friends Safe No one wants to be a victim No one wants to get expelled, pay a fine, or go to jail
Beware: Diffusion of Responsibility The more bystanders, the less likely someone will get involved People often assume someone else will take the initiative Don’t assume someone else will step up
“The Playbook” The Pick and Roll Get in the way “Hey, I need to talk to you.” “Hey, you’ve got to see this.” “Hey, I need to introduce you to….” “Hey, this party is lame. Let’s go somewhere else.” From
“The Playbook” The Full Court Press Get others involved “Look, it’s Dave and Kristin. Hey Dave and Kristin, you remember John, right?” “Come on, everyone’s leaving, let’s go.” “Hey John, it’s Dave! Dave, did John tell you about…That’s a great story.” From
“The Playbook” Make an Interception Take the person away “Hey, thanks for keeping Jane company while I was getting a drink. Come on Jane, let’s grab some food.” From
“The Playbook” Intentionally Foul Spill your drink “Oh, I am so sorry. Come on Jane, we’d better go.” Tell your friend you need help…now Hey Dave, I don’t feel so good. We need to go now and you need to help me get home. From
Be A Good Friend Be an active bystander Help someone who may be targeted for sexual assault Stop friends who aren’t thinking clearly from committing a crime
Penn Staters Researching Interventions for Social Misconduct Thank you for your help making Penn State fun and safe for everyone!