Authors: Pascoe, L., Wells, L., Esina, E., & Phung, N.

Date: October 2022

The bystander approach is a well-known and evidence-based practice in the field of engaging men, used primarily in relation to sexual violence prevention on university campuses. Yet the research suggests that while it has some positive impacts, used alone it is ineffective as primary prevention. This review synthesizes the latest research on bystander approaches to understand how to most impactfully use a bystander approach, how and where it should be implemented within a comprehensive multi-level strategy, as well as key gaps in bystander research where further research and investment are urgently needed. For more information on other approaches, review FAQs on the 9 promising approaches for practitioners engaging men in violence prevention and gender equality.