The Tragedy of Inaction

by Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD




When tragedy strikes, we ask ourselves “Why didn’t anyone stop this?” But we have a shared responsibility to our military community. Don’t let these factors silence you:

Self-Doubt – You want to be sure before you raise concerns. But the potential for violence may be obvious only after a tragic event occurs, cautions Dr. Nancy Zarse, Associate Professor of Forensic Psychology at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. At that point, the result seems inevitable.

Excuses – You may excuse aggressive talk or action from military or law enforcement personnel, says Dr. Scott Hall, Army veteran and Professor of Counselor Education at the University of Dayton. Because these individuals are trained to handle chaos, you may assume they know how to manage anger. That isn’t always the case.

Denial –You may not want to face facts. It is emotionally disturbing to think someone you trust to assist you – such as a physician or superior – is unstable or dangerous, says Dr. Eugenia Weiss of the University of Southern California’s School of Social Work. Remember: they are only human.

Rationalization – You may think yourself out of acting. People make sarcastic comments and empty threats to blow off steam. (Who hasn’t wished a bad boss would suffer some terrible fate?!) Yet few commit violent acts.

Stigma – You may worry about consequences to the individual’s career, says Zarse. Or you may fear you’ll be labelled a snitch. Some anxiety is reasonable. But keep the greater good in mind. Many people may be victimized if you fail to act.

Take personal responsibility for reporting concerns. “Most people hope someone else will speak out or act” says Zarse. If everyone believes “someone else will intervene,” no one does. And community inaction can be devastating.