How can I reduce my risk of being sexually assaulted?
Here are some suggestions to help you reduce your chances of being sexually assaulted.
Trust your gut. If you don't feel comfortable with a situation, leave.
Be in charge of your own life. Don't put yourself in a situation where you have to rely on others to take care of you. Also, when on a date, do not think that you owe that person anything.
Do not mix sexual decisions with drugs and alcohol. Your ability to make smart decisions is hampered when you are drunk or high.
Be aware of date rape drugs. Don't accept beverages from open containers and don't leave your drink unattended.
When going out with someone new, don't feel you have to go alone. Go on a public date or meet in a public setting.
Avoid falling for the lines "if you loved me..." If your partner loved you, they would respect your feelings and wait until you are ready.
Avoid individuals who...
- don't listen to you
- ignore personal space boundaries
- make you feel guilty or accuse you of being uptight for resisting sexual advances
- express sexist attitudes and jokes
- act jealous or possessive
Communicate. Think about what you really want before you get into a sexual situation, and communicate clearly with your partner. If you think you are getting mixed messages, ask your date what he/she wants.
Be assertive. Respect yourself enough not to do anything you don't want to do. Your opinions matter and when you say "no", your date should stop.
Taken from Sexual Violence and Teenagers from the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape