With undergraduate students, 26.4% of females and 6.8% of males experience rape or sexual assault through physical force and/or violence.
College and
Sexual Assault
It's not easy for sexual assault victims to come forward and get help. In most cases, the victim knows the perpetrator which makes it even harder to reach out for help. Showing support and love to a sexual assault victim is necessary. College students often have a unique struggle in that they may not have family and friends close by and may not have a close support system especially at the beginning. The importance of having a student council or a group where students can get help is essential.
Warning Signs
of Sexual Assault
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Signs of depression or feeling “down”
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Self-harming behaviors, thoughts of suicide, or suicidal behaviors
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Low self-esteem
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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
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Anxiety or consistent worry
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Increase/start of drug or alcohol use
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Unusual weight gain or weight loss
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Unhealthy eating patterns
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Signs of physical abuse
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Changes in self-care, such as paying less attention to hygiene and appearance
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Expressing thoughts about suicide or self harm as well as expressing thoughts about harming others
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Self-harming behaviors, thoughts of suicide, or suicidal behaviors
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Avoiding specific situations or places
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Issues in school/poor attendance
What is consent and why is it important?
Consent is an agreement by BOTH parties to engage in some form of sexual activity. Communication is very important when it comes to consent. Consent cannot be given by those underage, under the influence, asleep, or unconscious in any scenario. Consent should ALWAYS be communicated clearly and both parties should be aware and comfortable with what is happening.
Always remember, you do NOT have to have a reason to say “no.” If someone tries to convince you to do something, even if you have done it with that person before, you still have the right to say no to them. Using intimidation to get consent is not okay and in most states, it's illegal.
Almost 20% of college women reported experiencing sexual assault on campus.
Staying Safe on College Campus
Always stay alert when walking around campus or around your dorm.
Have an emergency contact that you can call if you need help quickly.
Be cautious when sharing your location. Remember, others may see it, even if you don't intend that to happen.
Always lock your dorm windows, doors, and car when you are inside.
Know where your campus panic buttons are and make sure to call campus security if you feel unsafe walking somewhere.
Download an emergency panic button app. These apps contain a silent panic button and can call police for you if you aren't able to.
If you are out drinking, never leave your drink alone or out of your sight.
Be cautious talking to strangers and allowing people into your home.
College x Dating Violence
Dating violence can take many forms including physical abuse and assault, sexual assault, psychological, emotional, and verbal abuse, and online/digital abuse. Each are very serious and can lead to long tern emotional and psychological damage. Victims of dating violence often deal with enhanced stress levels, low self esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorders.
How Can I Get Help?
The first step in getting help if you are being abuse by a partner is to reach out to campus security. They need to be notified to make sure you remain safe at all times. The second step should always be to contact a campus counselor or a therapist if you have one. They can help guide you through the process and get you resources you may need. Legal assistance and police may also be needed. The most important thing to remember is that it's not your fault. You don't deserve abuse and it's not acceptable behavior in a dating or romantic relationship.
