Question

Read the following scenario and select a reaction that best describes how you think you would behave.

"You see your good friend Tiana walking by herself past a group of guys. One of the guys yells at her, "Hey, can I get some of that?" Some of the other guys start laughing and cheering for the person who made the remark, although two of them look uncomfortable with what's happening. Select the response that most closely describes how you might step in to help Tiana."

a. While the guy's remarks make you a bit uncomfortable, this situation doesn't appear to be serious enough for you to step in yet
b. You don't need to take any action at this point.
c. Approach Tiana and walk with her. Make small talk and ask her if you can accompany her to her destination.
d. Once you've passed the guys, see if you can catch up with Tiana so that you can warn her to avoid walking through that part of campus in the future and suggest a different path to take.

Answer 1

The best response to the scenario is to directly approach Tiana, offer support, and walk with her, which is a form of direct intervention against the bystander effect and harassment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The scenario you're describing involves witnessing a form of harassment and considering how to respond to help your friend Tiana. This situation touches on the concept of the bystander effect, which indicates that people are less likely to intervene in a situation where others are present to witness the event. However, knowing Tiana personally may prompt you to act contrary to the bystander effect, making you more likely to help. The best course of action would likely be choice c: to approach Tiana and walk with her, engaging in conversation and ensuring her safety. This direct intervention not only provides immediate support but also offers a subtle sign to the group that their behavior is being monitored and is not acceptable. Furthermore, it's important to reflect upon and challenge societal responses to gender-based violence and work towards creating a community that does not tolerate such harassment.