Citation

Fileborn B. J. Gender Based Viol. 2017; 1(2): 187-204.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Centre for Gender and Violence Research, University of Bristol, Publisher Policy Press)

DOI

10.1332/239868017X15048754886046

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article examines street harassment victims' experiences of bystander intervention in incidents of harassment. Drawing on the findings of a mixed-methods pilot study undertaken in Melbourne, Australia, it considers what forms these interventions took and the impact(s) they had on
the harassment. It examines the impact(s) that bystander intervention had on participants.

FINDINGS suggest that bystander intervention is not common in incidents of street harassment. When it does occur, its impact is highly variable. Yet, bystander intervention is also central in informing victims' perceptions of safety, harm and justice. These findings present some important implications and complexities for bystander research and education and these are considered in closing.

Key Messages
• Bystander intervention was not common in incidents of street harassment.
• Where bystander intervention does occur, the outcome is highly varied.
• Bystander intervention often reduced the perceived harm of an incident of street harassment, and can form an important component of street harassment victims' justice needs.

Language: en

Keywords

BYSTANDER INTERVENTION; HARM; JUSTICE; SEXUAL VIOLENCE; STREET HARASSMENT