Students can find themselves in a variety of situations at college — some of which are much riskier than others. Whether it’s a party, late-night walk home, meeting at a fraternity house, or dating, there is always room for mistakes and the potential for danger. However, sexual assault and dating violence are often preventable.
As the conversation surrounding these topics has taken off on campuses across the country, students and parents alike want to know what their children can do to keep themselves safe while at school. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
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Get to Know Your Limits
It’s important to know your limits and make sure others know your limits to combat dating violence and sexual assault because it can help you keep yourself safe.
If you know how much you can handle, you’ll be able to avoid situations that are too much for you. For example, if someone is pressuring you into doing something that makes you uncomfortable, but they don’t seem like they’re going to stop asking, then it would be good for you to know when enough is enough.
Be Aware of the Risks
It’s important to know the risks of dating violence, sexual assault, and hazing. If you’re in a relationship with someone who has a history of abuse or violence, wants to do a sexual activity that makes you feel uncomfortable, or makes you feel unsafe while they are around you, you may be at risk for dating violence, sexual assault, and hazing.
No rite of passage should make you feel uncomfortable, but unfortunately, hazing is still a part of high school and college culture. Plus, it could lead to some toxic and scary places.However, while hazing rituals pose a big risk, you can always get assistance with the help of a sexual abuse attorney who specialises in sensitive hazing sexual harassment claims.
Be in Control of Your Behavior
You need to be in control of your own behavior and not put yourself at risk. Your ability to do this will help keep you safe and healthy, so you can enjoy all that life has to offer.
If someone has been drinking or doing drugs, it is best not to drink with them or do drugs with them. If you go anywhere alone with someone who has been drinking or doing drugs, especially if they are driving, there is a good chance that something bad could happen.
Know What Consent Is and Isn’t
It’s important to know what consent is and isn’t because it’s the foundation of a healthy relationship. When you don’t know what consent is, you might end up in an abusive relationship. Or, even worse, you might be a perpetrator of abuse.
Don’t Let Peer Pressure Sway You into Making a Bad Decision
Peer pressure is one of the most common reasons for making bad decisions. When you’re feeling pressured by your friends, you may give in to their demands and act without thinking. This can lead to poor choices as well as stress, which can lead to other problems, such as addiction and depression.
The best way to avoid peer pressure is to be aware of it when it happens. Pay attention to your emotions and how they change over time. If you feel like you’re being pressured into something that doesn’t feel right, take a step back and ask yourself why you’re doing what you are doing.