Stand Up: Factors Influencing Bystander Behaviors Among Youth

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This symposium highlights the importance of youth and young adult bystander behaviors in a range of situations. Specifically, papers consider ways in which bystander interventions might serve to reduce the likelihood of aggression and/or to increase support for peers. Presenters will discuss (1) adolescents’ attitudes about peer mental health problems and the association of those attitudes with perceptions that their peers need support; (2) how teachers’ responses to bullying are associated with elementary and middle school students' willingness to intervene; and (3) how past victimization experiences of college students influence their willingness to intervene in potential sexual assault incidents. Findings will be considered in light of implications for future research and for practice.

Sub Unit

• Division E - Counseling and Human Development / Division E - Section 1: Counseling

Chairs

• Melissa K. Holt, Boston University

• Jennifer Greif Green, Boston University

Papers

• Supporting Peer Mental Health and Bystander Attitudes - Jennifer Greif Green, Boston University; Claire Brown, Boston University; Shannon Gribben, Boston University; Javier Guzman, Boston University; Noah Segal, Boston University

• Association Between Teachers' Responses to Mean Student Behavior and Students' Willingness to Intervene in Bullying - Gerald Reid, Boston University; Chelsey Bowman, Boston University

• Influence of Past Bullying and Sexual Violence Victimization on Bystander Behaviors at College - Melissa K. Holt, Boston University; Jennifer Greif Green, Boston University; Rachel Oblath, Boston University

Discussant

• Amanda B. Nickerson, University at Buffalo