How Don’t Be That Guy Is Helping Prevent Domestic Violence Before It Starts in Western Australia
Most domestic violence prevention programs focus on adults after unhealthy behaviours have already developed. Don’t Be That Guy takes a different approach by working with young people before those behaviours become habits.
One of the most important messages delivered during the five-hour event is that how you treat your mum today is often how you will treat your future partner tomorrow. For some young people, this can be a confronting reality. Many children who have been exposed to domestic violence, aggression, intimidation, or unhealthy relationships can unknowingly grow up believing those behaviours are normal. Research has consistently shown that children exposed to domestic violence are at greater risk of either experiencing or repeating similar behaviours later in life.
Don’t Be That Guy challenges these beliefs head-on. Young people are encouraged to reflect on what healthy relationships look like, how respect should be shown, and why accountability matters. The program reinforces that men and women are equal and deserve the same level of respect, dignity, and consideration. It also addresses harmful online influences and “manosphere” content that can promote resentment, entitlement, or disrespect towards women. Instead, participants are encouraged to become confident, respectful, and emotionally mature young adults.
However, Don’t Be That Guy is about far more than domestic violence prevention.
The program teaches practical confidence skills, including maintaining eye contact, speaking confidently, carrying yourself with confidence, and making a strong first impression. Participants learn how to become more likeable, how to earn respect by speaking their mind, and how to avoid becoming followers who simply go along with the crowd.
Young people are encouraged to show greater appreciation for their parents and understand that their parents will not be around forever. They learn about accountability, public speaking, managing anxiety and worry, and how the choices they make today can shape their future.
The program also provides practical tools for dealing with bullies, handling peer pressure, and recognising the impact of the people they surround themselves with. Self-defence training gives participants confidence and practical skills to better protect themselves if faced with violence.
A major focus is prevention. Through powerful guest presentations and real-life stories, participants learn about the consequences of methamphetamine use, alcohol misuse, vaping, cannabis use during adolescence, addictive tendencies, sharing intimate images, sextortion, and other risks facing young people today.
Don’t Be That Guy is raw, honest, and sometimes confronting. More importantly, it gives young people practical tools they can use immediately. The goal is simple: help boys and girls become more confident, respectful, accountable, and resilient so they can make better decisions, build healthier relationships, and create better futures for themselves and those around them.
By helping young people build respect, accountability, confidence, and healthy relationship values, Don’t Be That Guy aims to address many of the root causes that contribute to domestic violence and other harmful behaviours later in life.
Craig WheatonÂ
Founder – Don’t Be That Guy