What role does a bystander play in bullying? Aren’t they just neutral observers?
Dr. Limber: There are many different roles that a bystander can play. For example, he or she can be a child who bullies, a victim of bullying, a bully`s supporter, a passive bystander or a defender. A single child may also assume different roles depending on the situation. But it`s important to note that a bystander`s role need not be neutral because a bystander has the power to encourage or discourage bullying behavior. GC: In what ways does a group mentality influence a bystander’s sense of individual accountability when bullying occurs? Dr. Limber: Group dynamics are critical to understanding the phenomenon of bullying. If bullying is witnessed by a number of children, it’s easy for a child to think, “It’s not my responsibility to report this or to speak up. Other kids were there, too!” If children don’t see other students or adults intervening, they become desensitized and, over time, feel less and less empathy for the victim. Often, they begin to think that the victim must deserve
