Post by Cat on May 25, 2018 19:23:16 GMT -5
How to Handle Misconduct in a Private Situation
When a friend confides in you and releases information that can potentially be identified as a misconduct case, it is crucial to maintain the privacy of that situation. This is so you do not interfere with a potential admin investigation or jeopardize the victim's safety. Before you can announce a prospective victim, you need to identify the intent of the abuser. This includes either gaining more information from the victim over a period of time or confiding in a trusted source of the potential victim to piece together evidence.
Do not confront the abuser. This places the victim and you in jeopardy. It can also cause the victim to retract their trust in you and not provide any further information.
Information is key in this situation, but do not push or force the victim to provide more information than they comfortable sharing. Cases against abusers take time to piece together. Rushing can cause damage to the victim and destroy the case.
If you have identified a clear pattern from the abuser, the next step is to convince the victim to report the abuser to the respective admin team. Coming forward is scary. Building up that courage and self-confidence for the victim can take time as well as patience. A method that can help a victim is having their close friend be there when they come forward with their case. This can be as simple as starting a group chat with an admin and being present as the victim files the report. Being there and supporting them can truly go a long way.
Once the case has been filed and the appropriate administrative action has been taken, the final step is after-care. After-care is the healing process for the victim to separate them from their abuser. During this time the victim may suffer withdrawal, self-blame, guilt, fear of retribution, and etc. It is crucial to support them through the process and let them know that are there. Healing has set time. It could take a weeks or years for a victim to heal. Remain by their side no matter how long it may take. They need you. If the victim is in an area that provides reliable resources, be sure to recommend them. Although you may be their friend, you are not trained to provide adequate help in all situations. You can, however, provide online resources, advice, and support as additional avenues to help.
If you have any questions regarding the steps to take during after-care or how to handle misconduct in a private situation, contact any of our representatives.