A.C.T. for Violence Prevention: Ask, Create, Talk

January 29, 2025

Preventing violence and protecting others is a shared responsibility. Bystanders play a vital role in interrupting harmful behaviors before they escalate, even when those behaviors seem subtle. By stepping in, we can collectively prevent harm and foster a safer community at Carolina.

The One Act Model

One Act focuses on three different intervention strategies under the A.C.T. acronym:

A – Ask for Help

If you don’t know what to do, reach out to someone who can help, whether it’s a friend, authority figure, or law enforcement.

C – Create a Distraction

In situations where direct confrontation is unsafe, create a diversion to help the person at risk escape the situation.

T – Talk Directly

If it’s safe to do so, calmly confront the person causing harm, making it clear that their behavior is unacceptable.


Awareness and Education

This model breaks the process of intervention into manageable actions. Whether you choose to ask for help, create a distraction, or talk directly to the person causing harm, taking action is key. By doing so, you contribute to a safer and more supportive environment where sexual violence and harassment are not tolerated.

Education is one of the most effective tools for violence prevention. Through training and increased awareness of resources, communities are better prepared to take meaningful action.

Trainings

Training programs can teach individuals how to identify warning signs and safely intervene.

Resource

Knowing about available resources at Carolina can help when someone might share a concerning experience with you, listen genuinely and validate their feelings.

By stepping up as a bystander, fostering inclusivity, and supporting educational efforts, we can create an environment where everyone feels safe and respected. Together, we can prevent violence before it starts.

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