Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Common Sense Safety for College Girls

By Jennifer Bales

For generations, parents have been telling their children to be careful of strangers and it is a valuable piece of advice. But, it only paints part of the picture. The terrible truth that you see on the larger canvas is that you are more likely to be victimized by someone you know than an absolute stranger. In fact, statistics indicate that 8 out of 10 victims know their attacker.

Year after year, thousands of young women head off to university and college in all parts of the country. They are often unprepared for the dangers that they may lurk there - and it isn't strangers. Being raped or assaulted by someone you know presents a whole new set of problems. For some reason, because it's all happening within a closed group of friends and peers assaulted women are often not taken seriously and even get blamed by their own friends. No one wants to upset the apple cart.

Rape at college is often brushed off. It is treated as a mistake, just another drunken party antic, bad communication or maybe even the inevitable conclusion to "wild girls" who can't hold their liquor. I head this and marvel that after all these years so little has changed. These rapes are almost never reported, and this can lead to deeply held emotional scars that can last for years.

Heading off to school is supposed to be an exciting and challenging time, but it's also very difficult. Many kids have a hard time adjusting to life away from home. Some withdraw to their rooms and their books and others go a little haywire. It doesn't make them bad- just vulnerable.

These are the six things you need to make sure that your kids understand

Don't think that someone who attacks you will pay. All to often they won't and the blend of alcohol and kids who are out from under the parental boot for the first time is a recipe for disaster. Watch out for drugs and alcohol.

If a date is making you feel uncomfortable, let them know immediately. Do not let the situation escalate. When your safety is on the line, there is no need to worry about being embarrassed or sparing another persons feelings. Make your feelings clear, and then immediately leave.

It is very easy to be charmed by a perfect guy, especially if you haven't done a lot of dating. But if you start to feel swamped and overwhelmed watch out for the danger signs of a potentially abusive relationship.

If you go out partying with your friends it's important that you never ditch the one who's had too much to drink. Even if they get loud and embarrasing and obnoxious - it really can happen to anyone and you can't cut the weakling out of the herd quite so callously.

Never go to parties or drinking alone. Always go with a friend you can trust not to leave you alone if you get too intoxicated.

There are all kinds of people on college campuses. Although the majority may seem trustworthy, realize that these are not the friends that you grew up with. Your trust is to be earned, not given away lightly. Don't let yourself be a victim. - 16463

About the Author: