What does digital bystander intervention look like?
In spirit of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Center for Campus Wellness is
leading an educational campaign highlighting various forms of domestic violence. This
is the second installment in a series of blog posts focused on understanding and reducing
digital abuse. Digital abuse is the use of technology and online platforms to stalk,
bully, or threaten another person. While many have heard of bystander intervention,
it’s not clear to many as to how to apply these skills in a digital space. Read more
to learn about how to step in if you see a loved one or even a stranger experiencing
digital abuse.
Slacktivism
Slacktivism is a low effort form of digital bystander intervention. The term is generally reserved for signing online petitions and the re-distribution of social media posts for a political or social cause. However, effective slacktivism can go beyond that. Consider actively disliking, flagging, or reporting digital material that is directly harmful to another individual. Immediately report inappropriate behavior. These are practical ways to employ slacktivism on forum sites and social media sites.
Healthy & Safe Online Practices
- Main strong and unique passwords for your social media sites, personal banking sites, and email addresses
- Don’t share your or other people’s workplace, educational institution, house address or telephone number online
- Report any personal or explicit information, photos, or videos non consensually shared online
- Disengage from the online bully or abuser: mute, unfollow, block, or report the abuser to the digital platform
- Consider setting up a Google Voice phone number or alternate phone number for added
privacy and safety
Support
If you or a loved one is experiencing any form of domestic violence, please refer to the resources listed below.
Victim-Survivor Advocacy: 801.581.7776
Domestic Violence Link Line: 800.897.5465
#WeAreResilient. #LoveShouldntHurt.