Preventing Sexual Misconduct

Sexual Assault is never the fault of the victim, however, there are strategies you can use to lower your risk of becoming a target.

What We Can Do

LISTEN CAREFULLY TO WHAT THE OTHER PERSON IS SAYING

  • Get permission. Never assume that you know what your partner wants. Regardless of how long you have known or dated someone, get permission.

COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY

  • Talk with your partner about what would be mutually enjoyable. Tell your partner what you do and do not want.
  • Ask your partner what they would be comfortable with or find enjoyable.
  • Stick with your decision. Have your words and your actions communicate the same message.
  • Pay attention to how much alcohol you are consuming. Alcohol and other drugs interfere with clear thinking and communication.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS & INTUITION

  • Even if you cannot explain why, you have the right to trust your feelings. If you are feeling uncomfortable, leave the situation. Trust your gut.
  • If your gut is confused about what your partner wants, stop. Ask them what they need/want. Clarify so you are both on the same page.

THINK ABOUT HOW YOU RESPOND TO SOCIAL PRESSURES

  • Decide what your needs and wants are before you are in a sexual situation.

RESPECT YOURSELF & YOUR PARTNER

  • Many people condone myths and misperceptions about sexual assault.
  • Object to stereotypes and degrading images wherever you hear or see them.

SET A POSITIVE EXAMPLE WITH YOUR FRIENDS

  • Treat people with respect and let others know you expect the same.

DO NOT ACCEPT OFFENSIVE OR AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR

  • Ask that the behavior stop. Support others who feel the same way.
  • In an emergency, contact University Police by calling (585) 395-2222.

VOLUNTEER

Join and support groups that provide sexual assault prevention education. Look into BARS (Brockport Against Rape and Sexual Assault), the BSG Advocacy Group, the Public Health Club, the Social Work Club, or volunteer with The Center for Select Respect.

Keep Yourself Safe

  • One of the best ways to protect yourself is to be aware of your surroundings.
  • If you choose to drink, drink responsibly. Aim for one drink per hour, up to four drinks maximum.
  • Do not take drinks from people you don’t know; always order your own drink.
  • Do not leave your drink unattended.
  • Look out for your friends and ask that your friends look out for you.

Ways to Protect Yourself

  • Be careful about when and where you decide to drink.
  • Use a buddy system for mutual support when you attend parties.
    • Watch your drinks at all times.
    • If you notice a friend acting differently (e.g., behaving aggressive sexually, oblivious to pain, etc.), get your friend out of the situation.
    • Be sure to utilize the Eagle Guardian app, available for Iphone and Android.
  • Trust your gut
    • If you feel uncomfortable, do what you can to leave the situation.
    • If being polite or nice doesn’t work, just leave.
  • Communicate openly and directly with your partner about sex.
    • You have the right to say no when you don’t want to do something.
    • If this is difficult for you, ask someone you trust to help you practice saying no.
  • Be wary of “rescuers”
    • Don’t accept a ride home from a stranger, even if that person seems to be concerned about your safety.

DRINKING & CLUB DRUGS

While other drugs are occasionally used to facilitate sexual assault, researchers and experts note that alcohol is the most commonly used drug in cases of sexual assault on college campuses. Alcohol has been used as a method to facilitate sexual assault for years and remains the most widely used drug today.

Other drugs used to facilitate sexual assaults include:

  • Rohypnol (roofies)
  • Gamma Hydroxy Butate (GHB)
  • Ecstasy

The effects of these drugs are similar to those caused by consuming a large amount of alcohol. Depending on the type of drug and the amount ingested, the victim may experience signs of confusion, memory loss, drowsiness, impaired motor skills, impaired judgment, reduced inhibition, slurred speech, or a variety of other symptoms.

If you or a friend are experiencing the effects of a sexual assault, help is available.