Bystanders: Responsible to Stop Bullying?

The answer to the title of this Post is: No. Bystanders are not responsible to stop bullying. There seems to be a focus in the field lately that puts pressure on student bystanders to stand up to bullies for the victims and stop the abuse. I have news for anyone who doesn't work in a school: it's not that simple and easier said than done. Although bystanders can certainly be helpful in addressing the bullying they are not responsible for stopping it. They can certainly help, however, in the following ways which are less dangerous for them and more likely to be put into action:

1. Report the incident to school staff or a parent so a report can be made to the school.

2, Take note of other student bystanders witnessing the incident so school staff can interview multiple witnesses to assist in the investigation.

3. Create a distraction during the incident to interrupt the abuse, for example: "Watch out I think a teacher is coming."

4. Attempt to remove the victim from the situation without addressing the bully.

5. Encourage the victim to report the incident to school staff.

6. Following the incident make a point to be friendly to the victim in school possibly include them in social activities if desired and appropriate.

The firm promotion by school staff of a strong anti-bullying policy which includes swift and attention getting consequences for violators is always the best bullying prevention measure at least according to this author, who has been involved in bullying prevention in NJ Public Schools for 18 years.