Student-Athletes Shattering the Silence: Willingness to Intervene in Sexual Assault Situations at the University of Hawai‘i Mānoa

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

The bystander intervention model has garnered widespread acceptance as a means for engaging college students in sexual assault prevention and intervention. The bystander model works by providing a perspective that shows how all community members have a direct stake and role to play in sexual violence prevention. In this paper, I argue that there remains a gap to be bridged before successfully introducing and subsequently implementing the bystander intervention model. Before we teach college students how to intercede as bystanders, we must first assist them in being able to identify the full range of opportunities of where and when they can willingly and safely intervene. Therefore, the purpose of this research paper is to better understand the role of situational factors in particular, college male student-athletes bystander behavioral intentions, or willingness to intervene in sexual assault situations. Additionally, as the University of Hawai‘i Mānoa is known as a ‘Hawaiian” place of learning, I advocate for a culturally competent component when engaged in educating our students. Thus, the culture of place is supported and sustained as we all learn and live collaboratively, as ‘love is worn like a wreath’ in the creation of a responsible and compassionate community.

Author

• Penny-Bee Kapilialoha Bovard, University of Hawaii at Manoa