Can Sexual Abuse be Prevented?You can never completely protect yourself from sexual abuse, you can take personal steps to avoid situations where it is more likely but you cannot control someone else's actions. What you can do, is speak up and use the power of your voice. Your voice is your greatest weapon. If someone is repeatedly assaulting you, your voice can be your prevention. Also speaking up about sexual abuse and standing together as one can make it more widely known that this happens and is wrong. Speak up, stand tall, use your voice. You can make a difference.
In a Social SituationBe true to yourself. Do not feel obligated to do anything you don't want to. "I don't want to" is always a good enough reason.
Have a code word with your friends and family so that if you don't feel comfortable you can call them and communicate your discomfort to them, without the person you are with knowing. LIE. If you aren't comfortable in the situation you are in and you don't want to hurt the persons feelings, LIE. Make up a reason to leave. Take care of you. Don't accept drinks from people you don't know/trust. If someone offers to buy you a drink at a bar, go with them, and watch the drink as its being poured AND CARRY IT YOURSELF. At parties don't drink from punch bowls or other large, open containers. If you suspect you or a friend of yours has been drugged contact law enforcement immediately (call 911). |
Avoid Dangerous SituationsBe aware of your surroundings. - Knowing where you are and who is around you, may help you get out of a bad situation.
Try to avoid isolated areas. - It's more difficult to get help if no on is around. Don't allow yourself to be alone with someone you do not trust, or someone you don't know. Walk with purpose. Even if you don't know where you're going, act like you do. Trust you instincts. If you are uncomfortable in a situation or location, it is probably not the best place to be. Try to avoid walking around with lots of bags or packages. This can make you appear more vulnerable. Make sure you have your cell phone with you, and that it is charged. Avoid putting music headphones in both ears so that you can be more aware of your surroundings. |