Sexual Assault in a 'Just World': An Immersive VR Study of Bystanders - Sarah Warbis

Year
2023
Organisation
University of Bath
Tags
Sexual Assault
Bystander Intervention
Bystander Behaviour
social psychology
Just World Belief
Victim Blaming
Psychological Distancing
Situation Trivialisation
sexual violence
Intervention Barriers
Prosocial Behaviour
experimental psychology
Immersive Film
Staged Scenarios
Public Awareness
University Campuses
Prevention Campaigns
behavioural change
Witness Responses
Research Ethics
Summary

This research examines why bystanders often fail to intervene during sexual assaults. Drawing on belief in a just world theory, it investigates victim blaming, trivialisation, and psychological distancing. Using immersive staged films, the project aims to identify barriers to intervention and develop evidence-based campaigns encouraging bystanders to act more decisively.