Men Can PRevent SExual Assault
Sexual assault affects both men and women.
Consider that:*
- 1 in 4 college women will experience rape or attempted rape at some time in their college career
- 90% of these women will know their assailant (who is most often male)
But men can be part of the solution:**
- 83% of college men respect their partner's wishes about sexual activity
- 74% of college men would intervene to prevent a sexual assault
Men can prevent sexual assault.
- Communicate clearly about how you feel and what you want. Listen to your partner. Do not rely on body language - stop, ask, and clarify what your partner wants.
- Do not accept the myth that 'no means yes'. Submission does not equal consent.
- Limit alcohol intake. Remember that having sex with someone who is drunk is sexual assault, even if you have been drinking.
- Educate yourself and examine your own attitudes that may perpetuate sexism and violence against women.
- Challenge actions, comments or jokes that support rape and other violence against women.
- Speak up. Don't look the other way. Confront friends who are becoming disrespecful or abusive of women. By speaking up when you think an assault is possible, you could save a friend from becoming a victim of sexual assault - or from committing one.
- Support survivors. If a friend is assaulted, you can help.
*Source: Fisher BS, Cullen FT, & Turner, MG. (2000). The sexual victimization of college women. U.S. Dept. of Justice, Office of Justice Programs: NCJ 182369.
**Source: 1999-2003 survey of college men by the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN)