Interpersonal Violence Prevention: "What Can I Do?"

Be an agent of change…

Everyone has the ability to be a force for good and positivity in the world. We can identify small and large opportunities to build connections and value others.

Try taking an informational approach when respectfully challenging a harmful comment or behavior, “Hey, I used to think that way too, but then I learned more about it, and now I try to handle this topic with more compassion.”
Highlight positive qualities or potential in someone to avoid them becoming defensiveness when you address hurtful comments or victim-blaming, “You’re so much kinder than that – trauma can change people’s lives and it’s important to respect how complicated it is.”
Learn more about getting involved with national initiatives [URL] or Temple student organizations [URL].

Offer support to a friend or peer who shares their experience with you…

It takes a tremendous amount of courage to share a stigmatized experience like sexual harassment and assault - when someone offers this private information it conveys how much they trust us. Our care or feelings for them can also add a layer of emotion to an already intense situation - here are a few invitations to consider:

Validate: “It’s really brave of you to share this, thank you for trusting me.”
Appreciate: “You’ve been managing so much on your own. You deserve respect and care.”
Refer: “Would you like to research some local or campus resources together? To find out what’s available?”
Support: “You are so strong and know what is best for you – I’ll be here whatever you decide.”