Receiving Information from Others

Both engaged bystanders and gatekeepers may experience apprehensions or fears that can impact how they interpret the behaviors observed or shared. As frontline practitioners in the community, gatekeepers are likely to receive information about concerning behaviors others have seen, heard, or learned about.  

When a community member shares information with you, be ready to gather information that will help you answer the following questions:  

• What behavior(s) did they notice or learn about?  
• How long have they noticed the behavior(s)?  
• Why do they feel the behavior(s) is concerning?  
• Have they talked to the person about their concerns(s) or about the behavior(s)? If so, what was their response?  
• Are they concerned for that person’s safety or the safety of others?  
• What are some contextual factors that may be relevant to consider? For example, are there recent events or unique circumstances that could be contributing to this behavior?  

In some cases, you may also have direct knowledge of the person the community member is concerned about. That additional information may help you further consider the details shared.  

Module 3 provides various options if someone should reach out to you and addresses skills that can help you engage others. The active listening skills described in Module 3 will help you not only directly engage those you are concerned about, but also other community members who come to you with their concerns. In addition to those skills outlined in Module 3, you will also want to be mindful of the following.  

1) Provide reassurance to address apprehension and discomfort.  

Some individuals may feel uncomfortable sharing information with you. You may need to provide them with reassurance to help them overcome some of this discomfort. Some individuals who are reluctant to share may need some time before they are willing to share everything they have noticed. Active listening, patience, and careful follow-up questions can help people who might initially be apprehensive.  

2) Be open to the information being shared.  

It is vital that you do not appear dismissive. Doing could make the individual feel that you do not believe them or you are downplaying their concerns. This could result in them not sharing information in the future or feeling that others are unable or unwilling to help. Maintaining a trusting relationship with those who reach out to share information requires gatekeepers to be approachable as well as attentive.  

3) Be honest about your intentions. 

In some instances, individuals may ask you about your intentions if they were to share information. Honesty is the foundation of trusting relationships. This means that you should never mislead someone. Module 3 provides actions you can take should someone share information with you. When talking to someone, you will need to decide when it is best to discuss these options with them.   

4) Be transparent about confidentiality issues. 

You should never promise confidentiality unless you are legally required to maintain confidentiality as a condition of your profession. The concerns expressed may require you to share concerns with other professionals. Those who are sharing information with you may need help understanding that confidentiality is not necessarily in the best interests of someone who is experiencing distress or displaying concerning behaviors. Sharing information can help connect individuals with needed resources and prevent more serious outcomes, including violence. You should be honest about this possibility. Some organizations have policies in place regarding when their employees must report information. Illinois laws may also mandate reporting. It is important that you consider these policies and, where applicable, discuss these reporting requirements with someone who may want to share information with you. 

Some individuals may also be unclear the difference between information reported confidentially and information that is reported anonymously. When people disclose information anonymously, they do so in a manner that prevents others from knowing their identities. An example might be when someone shares information via a tip line. Although anonymous information may help local authorities become aware of concerns, anonymous reports still require verification. Confidential reporting occurs when information is disclosed and those making the disclosure are known but their identities are not shared with others unless there is a legal reason to do so. When someone reaches out to you to share their concerns about others, you may need to explain to them the difference between confidential and anonymous reporting.