Moving From Awareness to Action

The CPE Student Workbook introduces a five-step decision-making model for bystander intervention.

Use your CPE Student Workbook to review and complete the five steps.

As you review the model, think of it as a progression:

Recognize what is happening.

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Determine whether the situation may require intervention.

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Decide that you have a role in responding.

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Consider what response may be appropriate.

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Choose an appropriate intervention.

Why Are All Five Steps Important?

Imagine that you recognize a concerning situation but think:

"Someone else will probably do something."

You noticed the situation—but the process stopped before action.

Or perhaps you decide you should help but think:

"I have no idea what I'm supposed to do."

Again, the process may stop.

Understanding the steps can help you recognize where intervention breaks down.

Being an active bystander does not mean putting yourself or someone else in danger.

Sometimes the appropriate action is to involve another person or seek additional assistance.

Which of the five steps do you think can be the hardest? Why?