Gender-based violence (GBV) is a major global issue, affecting millions of lives every year. While gender-based violence can affect anyone, the vast majority of cases involve men as perpetrators and women as victims. This is not a coincidence—it is the result of unequal power structures, traditional gender roles, and cultural norms that normalise male dominance and aggression while silencing or blaming women.
In the UK, one in four women experience domestic abuse, and one in five have been subjected to sexual assault. Despite awareness campaigns and legal reforms, the problem persists. But what if ordinary people—bystanders—could play a greater role in stopping it?
Our research explored how bystanders in male-dominated spaces, such as football clubs, can help challenge harmful attitudes and prevent violence before it happens.
The Problem: Toxic Masculinity and Cultural Norms
Many instances of violence against women are not isolated incidents. They are part of a broader cultural issue, where aggressive and controlling behaviour by men is often excused or overlooked. This is particularly evident in male-dominated environments, where traditional ideas about masculinity can reinforce harmful beliefs.
For example, research shows that men in high-contact sports, like football, might be more likely to accept rape myths—false beliefs that blame victims or excuse perpetrators. This makes it harder for individuals to recognise abusive behaviour, let alone challenge it.
However, culture is not fixed. It can evolve. And one way to drive that change is by encouraging bystanders to take action.
What Can Bystanders Do?
A bystander is anyone who witnesses or overhears something harmful taking place. This could be a teammate overhearing sexist jokes in a changing room, a friend noticing signs of an abusive relationship, or a colleague witnessing harassment in the workplace.
Bystander intervention training equips people with the skills to step in safely and effectively, whether by challenging harmful comments, supporting victims, or reporting concerns. It shifts the responsibility from being solely on victims or authorities to the wider community, making violence prevention a shared responsibility.
Football as a Platform for Change
Our study focused on a football club in the UK, where we evaluated a bystander programme called Football Onside.
We worked with players, coaches, and staff to raise awareness, challenge myths about abuse, and build confidence in stepping up as active bystanders.
The results were encouraging:
Participants showed a significant decrease in the acceptance of rape myths.
They felt more confident in their ability to intervene.
Many reported an increased willingness to challenge harmful behaviour.
However, measuring real-life behavioural change was more challenging. While attitudes shifted, it was not always clear whether these changes translated into direct interventions.
Enquire about training: About us | Kindling Interventions
Preventing Gender-Based Violence: Challenges and Open Questions
Encouraging bystander intervention is not always straightforward. Many people fear backlash, worry about making things worse, or simply feel unsure about what to do. In male-dominated spaces, speaking out against sexism can sometimes be perceived as disloyal or weak.
So, how do we make bystander intervention the norm? How can we ensure that training translates into real-life action? And how do we overcome resistance, particularly in cultures where toxic masculinity is deeply ingrained?
Why This Matters
Preventing violence against women is not just about laws and punishments—it is about shifting everyday attitudes and behaviours. Everyone has a role to play. Whether in sports, workplaces, or social settings, we can all challenge harmful norms and foster safer communities.
So next time you witness something that does not seem right, ask yourself: Will I step up?
To hear more about this research, please join me at the Centre for Gender and Violence Research seminar on 1st of May 2025: Events | School for Policy Studies | University of Bristol
Dr Anastasiia G Kovalenko
04 March 2025
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