Doctor speaks on sexual assault awareness Published April 29, 2008 By Senior Airmen Kara McGrath 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- An expert on the issues of sexual violence visited Luke with a message about how everyone can be a solution to the problem of sexual assault. Dr. Alan Berkowitz's "Social Norms Approach" presentation to the Luke community highlighted how to identify the true social norms that influence our actions or non-actions as bystanders. A bystander is defined as someone who "stands by" and does not do anything when they notice a problematic situation or behavior even though they may find the behavior to be offensive, according to Dr. Berkowitz. For almost all health and social justice problems there are bystanders. "People need to realize that sexual assault is more of a problem than they like to accept," said Dr. Berkowitz. "Sexual assault is everyone's problem to solve." The 56th Fighter Wing Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office invited Dr. Berkowitz to speak on the subject of bystander awareness. "By reframing models of change and leadership, Dr. Berkowitz's presentation encouraged attendees to use their community to create a climate of intolerance against sexual harassment and sexual assault," said Joice Jones, 56th Fighter Wing SAPRO Sexual Assault Response Coordinator. "Our office will continue to work with the Luke community to create more healthy, responsible and caring behaviors. When asked what future goals he has in his work, Dr. Berkowitz stated two things. He wants to educate Airman to avoid imposing their will on anyone physically before he or she is certain they have the consent of the other person involved. He also wants Airmen to know they can intervene when someone else behaves in an unacceptable manner. Dr. Berkowitz's opinion is frequently sought after by the federal government and professional organizations and is well-known for scholarship and innovative programs which address issues of substance abuse and sexual assault. Dr. Berkowitz received bachelor's and master's degrees as well as Ph.D. in psychology from Cornell University. He has more than twenty years of experience in higher education as a trainer, psychologist, faculty member and counseling center director. "In the future, I hope that when Airmen notice someone engaging in a behavior that could put them at risk of sexual assault, they'll not just stand by, but will intervene to prevent it." Dr. Berkowitz said. The SAPRO is featuring two new plays that will be shown at the base theater near the end of the month. Remote Control and Yellow Dress are open to members of the Luke community 17 and older. The plays explore issues of sexual assault prevention and model how bystanders can intervene to prevent violence against women. For more information on Dr. Berkowitz or Sexual Assault Awareness Month activities, call (623) 856-4878.