Types of observers we may encounter

The Passive Observer (The Silent Spectator)

The most numerous category in any bullying dynamic is the passive observer.

This individual, or group of individuals, witnesses the aggression, understands that it is wrong, but actively chooses not to intervene.

The primary motivation for this passivity is usually not malice or agreement with the aggressor, but fear.

The passive observer fears retaliation; he knows that if he intervenes, he risks becoming the new focus of the aggression.

He may also experience a "diffusion of responsibility": being in a group, he thinks that "surely someone else will do something" or that "it is none of his business".

Although they do not participate directly, the inaction of these observers is interpreted by the aggressor as a form of tacit consent.

Their silence validates the harasser's conduct and reinforces the victim's sense of helplessness.

For the victim, the silence of her peers is deeply painful, interpreting it as a betrayal or confirmation that she does not deserve to be defended.

Passivity, therefore, is a form of indirect complicity that perpetuates the cycle of bullying.

The Reinforcers and Helpers of the Aggressor

This group of observers does take an active role, but in favor of the bully. Reinforcers do not initiate the aggression, but encourage it.

They are the ones who laugh at the "joke", cheer the aggressor on, record the situation with their cell phones or watch expectantly. Their function is to give the aggressor an audience and the social status he seeks.

By laughing, they communicate to the aggressor that his behavior is acceptable or even admirable, and to the victim, that his suffering is a spectacle. One step further are the "helpers" (or assistants).

These actively participate in the harassment, but always under the leadership of the main aggressor.

They may be those who restrain the victim, those who steal the victim's belongings to give them to the leader, or those who participate in social exclusion to curry favor with the bully.

They act out of a desire to belong to the dominant group, fear of the leader, or a combination of both, but their participation is direct and actively contributes to the harm inflicted.

The Defensive Observer (The Change Agent)

Although less frequent, the defensive observer is the crucial role in dismantling the bullying.

This individual decides to break the consensus of silence and act on behalf of the victim.

This advocacy can take many forms, not always being a direct confrontation.

An advocate can intervene on the spot, telling the aggressor to stop, or can support the victim in private (comforting her, listening to her, validating her feelings) or seek help from an adult (teacher, tutor) in a discreet but effective way.

The figure of the advocate is vital because it breaks the power imbalance. It shows the aggressor that his behavior is not universally accepted and, most importantly, it shows the victim that she is not alone.

The intervention of a single advocate is often enough to encourage other passive observers to act, changing the group dynamic from one of complicity to one of protection.

Summary

Passive observers are the majority; they are silent witnesses to harassment. They do not intervene for fear of retaliation or because they think it is not their responsibility, but their inaction validates the aggressor.

Other observers are active: "reinforcers" encourage the aggressor with laughter, and "helpers" participate in the aggression. Both roles seek to gain status or membership in the dominant group.

The "defender" observer is the one who breaks the silence. He may confront the aggressor, comfort the victim or seek adult help. Their action is key to breaking the power imbalance.