8 Phrases to Interrupt Harmful Behavior

Part of your role as a facilitative leader, a leader of possibility is to co-create and uphold the safety of gatherings. If we want to invite vulnerability, we have to hold space for emotional safety

Use these phrases when you notice harmful behavior in meetings, discussions, workshops and facilitated sessions. Then, follow up with reference to your groups’ community agreements, further conversation, resources or other intervention.

I pulled this directly from our online course for direct service providers, Behavior in Community. This is from the module, Interrupting Harmful Behavior. Try these statements when you need to with adults in your learning or meeting sessions.

1. That is not okay with me.

2. That’s not funny.

3. I’m going to stop you there.

4. I didn’t realize you think that.

5. Hold on—I need to process what you just said.

6. Please consider the impact of what you just said.

7. Wait. This does not support our community agreement to…

8. What you just said is harmful.

This can feel overwhelming sometimes. Don’t over think it. Have a few of these phrases in your pocket and be ready with them. Your voice is needed to maintain the safety of your space. You’ve got this. ❤️