How to Intervene

“Hello there! I’m here to provide you with a bit of information on the importance of distraction, delegation, direction, and delaying while intervening as a bystander. I would like to remind you that suggestions on this post should not be taken as medical advice, legal advice, therapy, etc. or as a one-size-fits-all approach.  Keep in mind that every individual’s journey of  experiencing and navigating through stress or trauma is distinctive because you are one of a kind and no person is truly like you!  Experiencing abuse in any form is NOT OKAY, but what you are experiencing as a result of abuse is valid.  Please know that healing is not a formula and is not for anyone else to define for you. You do you, and you follow all that you need to follow, to help yourself. If you need additional resources or just someone to talk to, feel free to reach out to Imaara Foundation."

(Image source: Koimoi)

What is distraction in terms of intervening?

Distraction refers to creating some distraction that is enough for a perpetrator to discontinue the abusive, wrong and violent behavior. Such things could be spilling a drink, intervening to ask for directions, asking the victim to come and help with a task, telling the perpetrator that their car is getting towed or they’ve received a request to re-park the vehicle, or even screaming loudly.

What is delegation in terms of intervening?

Delegation refers to reaching out to others to intervene, rather than intervening yourself – you could reach out to a person in authority, a security guard or watchman, a bouncer, the host of the event you are part of, your group of friends, a parent or guardian, or even the police.

What does it mean to direct in terms of intervening?

Direct refers to addressing the abusive incident directly by confronting the victim or the perpetrator. This can be done by asking if the victim is okay, or by telling the perpetrator that what they are doing is wrong. This is usually a difficult and dangerous way to intervene as a bystander, so if you do intend to intervene by directly getting into the situation, you must do so by taking all safety measures to ensure that you do not suffer as a consequence.

What is delay in terms of intervention?

Delay refers to intervention after the abuse has taken place – sometimes, it is not clear that violence or abuse is taking place, or you may arrive late to the scene. It involves getting the victim to safety and providing for the victim’s needs and ensuring immediate attention.