Upstander Program Effectiveness: A Review of the Evidence in Educational Settings (2007–2018)
Harnessing the Power of Bystanders: Transforming Schools through Positive Action
By Dr Zach Greig
When it comes to creating safer and more inclusive educational environments, bystander intervention programs have emerged as powerful tools in recent years. These initiatives are designed to empower individuals who might otherwise remain passive observers to become active and engaged bystanders. The primary goal is twofold: equipping individuals to recognize potential instances of violence or danger and enabling them to take action to prevent harm or defuse the situation. In this blog post, we will explore the positive impacts of bystander action programs in school settings, drawing from a review of evidence spanning from 2007 to 2018.
The Evolution of Bystander Programs in Schools
In the last decade, bystander intervention programs have gained recognition as promising strategies to reduce violence and promote safety within educational settings. These programs have evolved with a focus on cultivating proactive bystanders who are prepared to act before, during, or after a potentially dangerous situation unfolds.
The Research Behind Bystander Action in Schools
A comprehensive review spanning 23 publications between 2007 and 2017, authored by Samuel C. Bell, Ann L. Coker, and Emily R. Clear, delved into the effectiveness of 12 bystander programs. These initiatives aimed to enhance bystander efficacy, intentions, and behaviours while simultaneously reducing acceptance of violence, violence perpetration, and victimization.
Key Findings: Empowering Bystanders in Educational Settings
The review primarily focused on programs implemented within college settings, leveraging rigorous experimental designs. The results were nothing short of impressive:
Increased Bystander Efficacy and Intentions: Nine out of ten programs reviewed demonstrated that receiving bystander training had a positive impact on increasing bystander efficacy or intentions.
Enhanced Bystander Behaviors: Seven out of nine programs showed significant improvements in bystander behaviors, indicating that participants were more likely to take action when needed.
Reduced Violence Acceptance: An encouraging trend was observed in 7 out of 11 programs, with participants displaying a decreased acceptance of violence.
Tangible Reduction in Violence: Four programs provided substantial data on the effectiveness of bystander intervention in reducing violence. All four reported reductions in incidents of sexual violence, sexual harassment, or dating violence.
Conclusion: The Promise of Bystander Programs in Schools
In a world where bullying, harassment, and violence can adversely affect the educational experience, the evidence is clear: bystander intervention programs hold immense promise in creating safer and more respectful school environments. These programs equip students and staff alike with the tools they need to recognize, respond to, and ultimately prevent harmful situations.
By fostering a culture where bystanders become agents of change, we not only reduce violence but also empower individuals to actively contribute to the well-being of their peers and their school community. The research speaks volumes: bystander programs are a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards safer and more compassionate educational institutions.
As we continue to prioritize the well-being of our students and the sanctity of our schools, let us recognize the transformative potential of bystander intervention programs, paving the way for a brighter and safer future in educational settings.
