Evaluating a dialogue-based bystander intervention for work-related gender-based violence and harassment

A mixed method pilot study

Datos Bibliográficos

ID21620188
AutoresKristian Stampe Nielsen, Maj Hansen (0000-0002-8328-0807), Brita Bjørkelo (0000-0001-7535-2076), Eva Gemzøe Mikkelsen (0000-0001-8405-5356)
Año2025
Volumen36
Número4
Páginas755-777
Fecha de publicación2025-06-23
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaInternational Journal of Conflict Management (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 1044-4068 • E-ISSN: 1758-8545
EditorialEmerald (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1108/ijcma-09-2024-0229
OpenAlexW4409973443
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas2
Referencias citadas58

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the experiences and perceived effects of the dialogue-based primary-level bystander intervention “Intervene: Sexual Harassment” in preventing work-related gender-based violence and harassment within a Danish public organisation. Design/methodology/approach A longitudinal mixed method approach was used across six care facilities. Group interviews were analysed using thematic analysis to assess participants’ experiences, while dependent sample t -tests measured changes in bystander behaviours, attitudes and perceived barriers. Two proportion z -score tests were used to evaluate changes in gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) prevalence from baseline to follow-up. Findings Thematic analysis indicated that participants experienced increased knowledge and awareness of GBVH, increased personal and shared responsibility for addressing it and greater confidence in doing so. However, dependent sample t -tests showed no significant changes in quantitative outcomes. Contextual factors obstructing (e.g. lack of time) and facilitating (e.g. leadership endorsement) the implementation and effects of the intervention were also identified. Results suggest that “Intervene: Sexual Harassment” may positively affect factors associated with constructive bystander behaviour. Research limitations/implications The quantitative results are limited by a small sample size. Qualitative results indicate that participants perceived the interventions as impactfult. These contradictory findings warrants further investigation. Practical implications Leadership endorsement and addressing time constraints are essential for enhancing bystander interventions’ effectiveness. Tailored vignettes can further support contextual relevance and engagement. Originality/value This study is one of few empirical evaluations of bystander intervention programmes in organisational settings, emphasising the importance of contextual factors in implementation and the need for further research on long-term effectiveness

Harassment · Psychological intervention · Qualitative research · Thematic analysis · Applied Psychology · Clinical Psychology · Intimate Partner and Family Violence · Psychology · Sexual Assault and Victimization Studies · Social Psychology · Workplace Violence and Bullying