Can a Technology-Amplified Bystander Effect Impede the Prevention of Campus Sexual Assault? Findings from an Experimental Vignette Study

ABSTRACT

The present study aimed to determine whether greater levels of mobile connectivity, such as that afforded by campus safety apps, are associated with lower levels of bystander intervention into campus sexual assault incidents. We employed an experimental vignette design with a sample of college students to determine whether greater levels of mobile connectivity are associated with lower bystander intentions to intervene. We randomly assigned participants to read one of four sexual assault vignettes, manipulating the level of mobile connectivity and measuring participants’ intent to help the victim, confront the perpetrator, and contact outside resources. We found no significant differences in any outcomes based on vignette condition. This suggests safety apps do not impede intervention. Yet, future research should determine safety app effects on sexual assault prevention before widespread uptake is recommended.

KEYWORDS:

• Sexual assault
• sexual violence
• bystander effect
• mobile technology
• bystander intervention

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Ethics approval

Procedures for this study were screened by Clemson University’s Institutional Review Board and designated exempt based on the grounds that the study involved a benign behavioral intervention and responses could not be linked to specific participants.

Consent to participate

Informed consent was obtained from all study participants.

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.

Notes on contributors

Heather Hensman Kettrey

Heather Hensman Kettrey, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice at Clemson University. Her research focuses on gender and sexuality, violence, youth and emerging adulthood, and prevention science.

Martie P. Thompson

Martie P. Thompson, PhD, is the Blue Cross North Carolina Distinguished/Endowed Professor in the Department of Public Health and Exercise Science at Appalachian State University. Her research focuses on risk factors and consequences of violence, as well as risk factors for suicidal behavior.