Interpersonal Violence Prevention
Binghamton University
University Health and Counseling
607-777-3062
C4-120
There is a great deal University faculty and staff can to do assist students who have been the victims of sexual assault, relationship violence, bullying or stalking. We recommend you review the following helpful documents, as well as visit our Resources webpage, which contains useful data and links.
Victims of interpersonal violence respond to the experience in varying ways and may suffer from a variety of difficulties. Many survivors appear to themselves and others to have their feelings under control, only to become extremely upset again within a short time. Some of these reactions may be short-lived; others can be troubling for months or years following the incident.
A survivor might experience any or all of the following reactions:
Safety first: Always keep safety in mind as you interact with a distressed student. If you have any concern for the safety of your student or yourself, call University Police at 607-777-2393 or 911 immediately.
Journal entries/reports from other students: In some cases, you’ll hear about the distressed student from someone else or through classroom assignments such as journal entries. If you have a good rapport with the student, invite him/her to talk to you or to consult with the University Counseling Center at 607-777-2772.
Avoid escalation; be sensitive and supportive: Victims of interpersonal violence have experienced a traumatic event that results in an intense loss of power; therefore, avoid “pulling rank” on students. Create an environment of safety and let the student know it’s safe to talk to you and that you’ll listen without judgment. Carefully listen to the student and believe what he/she is telling you. The student has chosen to speak to you because he/she trusts you. You’re an important step in the student’s healing process. Don’t press for details and let the student decide what steps, if any, to take. Remind the student that what happened wasn’t his/her fault.
Don’t assume you’re being manipulated: The victim of interpersonal violence won’t appear distressed simply to get attention or relief from responsibility. He/she will typically exhibit emotional responses consistent with those listed above. Listen to and believe the student. Refer him/her to appropriate resources for help.
Know your limits: As sympathetic and understanding as you may be, some students will need much more emotional support than you can provide. Referrals to professional counseling services are an important step for recovery. The University Counseling Center is available to help at 607-777-2772.
New York State University Police
607-777-2393
Decker Student Health Services Center
607-777-2221
University Counseling Center
607-777-2772
Harpur's Ferry
607-777-3579
