Taking the step to express a concern about someone can evoke mixed feelings. Following are a few questions to explore as you consider your options.

Why should I contact BIT?
If a community member (student, faculty or staff) behaves in a way that is disruptive or poses a threat to any aspect of the LSCS community, such behaviors should be reported to the Behavior Intervention Team.

What if I am wrong about the person?
You are registering a concern based on an observed behavior (e.g., verbal exchange, action, etc.), not making a determination. By alerting the appropriate campus representatives, a safety determination can be made.

Should I approach him/her first?
As a caring individual, you may desire to reason with or explore the source of the actions of the person in question. However, based on the threat level, this mentoring approach may not be the best course of action. Always assess the risk. Should you have any concern about your safety or the safety of others, your best course of action for the safety of all involved is to access intervention from people who are trained in these areas.

I don't have a great deal of evidence; should I wait before notifying someone?
Sometimes we don't have all the evidence. Let the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) weigh the information and see if gathering more facts is warranted as a response plan is evaluated. Bring what you have because others may have evidence too.

Can I report a concern anonymously?
You are encouraged to identify yourself because this may assist the BIT if clarification or additional information is needed. Submitting your name also gives your report more credence. Anonymous entries will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

What do I do if I know a student who may need to be referred to the BIT process?

1. If you feel there is an immediate threat, call 911.
2. To make a referral, submit a referral form  (by clicking here) or it is located to the left of the BIT homepage. You will be asked for basic information about the student, how to contact you (in the event the BIT has follow-up questions) and for a description of the incident or behaviors that prompted the referral.
3. You are the Behavior Intervention Team's best resource because you are familiar with the student. If you are comfortable doing so, tell the student that you are concerned and ask if he/she is OK. In many cases students will indicate that he/she could use some help and you can refer them to resources link available on the BIT webpage.

Who can make a BIT referral?
Anyone who feels a student is a threat to himself/herself and/or others, or is exhibiting behaviors disruptive to the mission of the community, can make a BIT referral; including students, parents, faculty and staff, and other community members.

What happens after I make the referral?
The team of members from student services, academic affairs and the counseling services are able to take the information and make a decision about whether the student should be assessed by counseling center staff. However, reporting is the most critical step.

Inasmuch as it is allowed by FERPA, the BIT may provide feedback to the referring individual to update them on actions taken and provide appropriate guidance.

Refer to the Resources link on the left-hand side of the BIT pages to find contact information if you believe these departments can assist you.