Bystander Intervention in Bar Fights
What to Do When Someone Starts a Fight
If you witness a fight breaking out at a bar, what should you do? Should you root for one side, step in to break it up, or join in the fight yourself?
Frequency of Bystander Intervention
According to a study conducted by Michael Parks, a researcher at Penn State University, bystanders intervene in about one-third of bar fights. Interestingly, men are more likely to intervene than women.
Factors Influencing Intervention
Several factors can increase the likelihood of bystander intervention:
- Severity of Aggression: Bystanders are more likely to intervene if the aggression is severe and mutual.
- Gender of Participants: Intervention is more common in fights between two males than in other types of altercations.
- Intoxication: Bystanders are more likely to intervene if the participants are intoxicated.
Assessment of Dangerousness
Researchers believe that bystanders assess the dangerousness of a situation before deciding whether or not to intervene. They are more likely to intervene in situations that they perceive as being more dangerous, such as fights between two drunk men.
Cultural Influences
Cultural rules around honor and saving face may also influence bystander intervention. For example, men may be more likely to intervene in fights to protect their own honor or to avoid appearing weak.
Non-Violent Intervention
In most cases, bystanders who intervene do so non-violently. They may try to calm the participants down, separate them, or call for help.
Classic Bar Room Brawls
The classic bar room brawl, in which one person punches another and suddenly the whole place is fighting, is actually quite rare. Studies have shown that most bar fights are relatively minor and involve only a few people.
Why Men Intervene More Often Than Women
There are several reasons why men are more likely to intervene in bar fights than women:
- Social Norms: Men are often socialized to be more aggressive and protective than women.
- Physical Strength: Men are typically stronger than women, which may make them feel more confident in intervening.
- Fear of Being Labeled as Weak: Men may be less likely to intervene if they fear being perceived as weak or unmanly.
What to Do if You Witness a Bar Fight
If you witness a bar fight, here are some tips on what to do:
- Assess the Situation: First, assess the situation and determine the level of danger.
- Call for Help: If the fight is serious, call for help from the bartender, security, or the police.
- Intervene Non-Violently: If you feel comfortable doing so, try to intervene non-violently by calming the participants down, separating them, or calling for help.
- Stay Safe: Always put your own safety first. If you feel threatened, do not hesitate to leave the area.
By understanding the factors that influence bystander intervention and following these tips, you can help to create a safer environment at bars and other public places.