With the end of the fall semester and the beginning of the Christmas holiday break upon us, I thought it would be a good time to discuss campus safety. As I talk to young adults each day, including many college students, I am constantly reminded of the importance of this issue. Campus safety is an important issue that should be addressed by all students and their parents. For millions of young adults each year, going to college provides the first taste of true independence. With no one to tell them when to study or come home at night, it can be difficult to adjust to this newfound freedom. The unfortunate truth, however, is that for some new students, this fun and exciting experience can be marred by a rising trend affecting college students: rape and sexual assault. For students, part of being responsible for yourself means knowing the proper precautions to take in ensuring your safety on campus. For parents, it’s important to educate your children on these precautions and be as aware as possible of what is going on in their lives.
Studies show that approximately 5% of female college students have reported being victims of sexual assault, with 20 to 25% of students projected to experience rape or sexual assault before the end of their college career. Furthermore, freshman women are at the highest risk for sexual assault and these rates are also generally highest during the fall semester. However, this does not mean senior students are without risk.
Predictably, alcohol is a leading factor in college sexual assault cases. Some reports cite 50-75% of these types of cases involving drugs or alcohol. This is probably because the college party scene is a dangerous combination of naiveté, alcohol and manipulation. Other problems are a difference in sexual expectations between young men and women and a misunderstanding of what constitutes sexual assault.
By legal standards, sexual assault is defined as any sexual contact that is against a person’s will and without consent.
For some parents, staying in contact with their new students can sometimes be difficult. The key is finding a balance between having enough contact to show your student that you care, but not so much that you start becoming intrusive and overbearing. A healthy relationship and communication between parent and student can be vital if a crisis were to arise, such as sexual assault on campus. Often, when an assault does occur, the victim feels scared and alone. Knowing that the parent will be supportive no matter what increases the chances that the child will confide in them in the worst case scenarios.
Here are some things you should know about maintaining healthy contact between parent and student:
- It’s important to talk to your student, without preaching to them, about sexual assault and the importance of taking precautions on campus. When students know that you are available for support and coaching, they are likely to ask for it, but when they feel checked up on, they are more likely to build barriers.
- Not hearing from your student for several days is often a very good sign. Students who are busy getting acclimated and forging a life at the university might be less inclined to call home.
- In serious situations, parents can be critical in helping to find assistance or resources for their student. If you notice in conversations or e-mail exchanges that your student is showing signs of extreme or out-of-character behavior prolonged during more than a week, ask questions and try to learn more about what specifically may be affecting him or her.
For students, remember: preparation and awareness are the keys to safety in any situation.
Here are some tips for staying safe on campus:
While out at a party
- The unfortunate statistic is that 90 percent of rapes occur between people who already knew each other and that approximately half of rapes happen on dates. This is commonly known as “date rape” or “acquaintance rape.”
- Stay with a group of people when you are out at night. Avoid risky or sketchy areas.
- Avoid excessive alcohol. According to the Journal of Studies on Alcohol, more than 70,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 have been victims of alcohol-related sexual assault or date rape.
- Be alert for possible use of “date rape drugs” such as Rohypnol, which is illegal in the United States. Someone can slip it into a drink. It causes drowsiness, a loss of coordination, dizziness and memory loss. Never take drinks from other people and don’t leave your drink unattended.
While walking around campus
- Survey the campus after dark to see that buildings, walkways, quadrangles and parking lots are adequately secured, lighted and patrolled.
- Avoid walking alone if possible.
- Walk with an air of confidence and stay alert.
- Walk in lighted areas.
- Keep your hand free, not overloaded.
- Have your keys ready.
- If you are being followed: cross the street, scream, run to an occupied residence or store, or flag down a car.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you are a woman or man who was the victim of a crime, do not keep quiet! I’m sure you know having a medical evaluation and going to the police are vital to bringing the criminal to justice. Outside of that, however, it is important for YOU to discuss this very traumatic event. If you do not feel comfortable talking to friends or family members, at least let your primary care physician know what has happened. Overall physical health and mental well being are vital keys to life!
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