Many cases of sexual assaults occur in the victim's home and the assailant is usually someone the victim knows. While any person can be a victim of sexual assault, women are disproportionally at risk.

Acquaintance Rape

Sexual assault by strangers occurs less often than sexual assault by acquaintances. We naturally treat strangers with caution. 

While sexual assault is never the fault of the victim, there are steps a person can take to avoid unwanted sexual contact and protect themselves while dating.

• Know your date.
• If you do not know your date well, meet them and stay in public, populated areas.
• Tell someone you trust where you are going and when you expect to return. Make this fact known to your date. Contact this person once you are safely home.
• Communicate clearly what you want and what your limits are with confidence.
• Be assertive. Act immediately when something happens that you do not like.
• Trust your feelings. If you feel pressured or uneasy, remove yourself from the situation.
• Be aware of anyone who is domineering or manipulative who attempts to impose their will on you or who shows a lack of respect for your feelings.
• Limit your use of alcohol and drugs. They reduce your ability to think clearly and make sound decisions.

Remember that you do not have to accept unwanted sexual attention. You have the right to set your own limits and change these limits over time or with different people.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at (800) 656-4673.