Sexual Abuse
By: Lindsey Albertson and Dustin Wilson Block:10
Do you know the signs of sexual abuse?
- Unwanted kissing or touching.
- Unwanted rough or violent sexual activity.
- Rape or attempted rape.
- Refusing to use condoms or restricting someone’s access to birth control.
- Keeping someone from protecting themselves from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Sexual contact with someone who is very drunk, drugged, unconscious or otherwise unable to give a clear and informed “yes” or “no.”
- Threatening someone into unwanted sexual activity.
- Repeatedly pressuring someone to have sex or perform sexual acts.
- Repeatedly using sexual insults toward someone.
Have a game plan when getting out of an abusive relationship!
Safety Planning
A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that can help you avoid dangerous situations and know the best way to react when you’re in danger
How Family and friends can change your life and the way you think.
- Listen and be supportive. Even when you don’t understand or agree with their decision -- don't judge. It can make them feel worse.
- Connect them to resources and information in their area.
- Don’t post information about your loved one on social networking sites. Never use sites like Facebook or Foursquare to reveal their current location or where they hang out. It's possible their partner will use your post to find them. Brush up on your knowledge of digital safety.
- Allow the person you're trying to help to make up their own mind. Leaving an unhealthy or abusive relationship may be difficult and even dangerous. Avoid blaming or belittling comments. Abusive partners usually put down their victims regularly, so your loved one's self-esteem may already be low.
- Don't give up even though helping is frustrating.