04:26
Faizan
Teens from 16 to 19 years are 3 1/2 times more likely to fall victim to sexual assault than people of all other age groups and one fifth of teen girls are abused by a dating partner, according to the U.S. Department of Justice National Sex Offender Public Website. This is a frightening and tragic statistic for teens and their families. Teaching your teen exactly what comprises a sexual assault, how to stay safe and what to do should the unthinkable happen are vital parenting responsibilities.
What Constitutes a Sexual Assault?
You might think of rape when you hear the words, "sexual assault." However, there are other forms of sexual assault besides rape. A sexual assault occurs whenever there is non-consensual sexual behavior -- meaning not everyone involved consented to the sexual act. Common and not-so-common forms of sexual assault include rape -- someone having sex with you against your will -- attempted rape, inappropriate and unwanted touching, someone watching you perform private acts without your knowledge, someone exposing their private body parts to you without your consent, or in the form of verbal or other sexual harassment, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health.
Preventing Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is never the victim's fault, but there are things you can do to help lessen the chances that it will happen to you: Be aware of your surroundings and act confident, even if you don't feel that way. Limit access to your house keys and never leave your house key on the key ring when giving it to a garage or service person. Keep your doors and windows locked -- both car and house -- whether you're in them or not. Make sure first dates are group dates and avoid being alone with people at parties if you've had too much to drink. Get in the habit of practicing preventive behaviors like these to help reduce your risk of sexual assault.
If it Happens to You
If you are raped, first try to get somewhere safe, away from your attacker. Call the police and a trusted family member, friend or even a hotline to get help handling all the emotions that accompany violation. Don't shower or bathe until the hospital has a chance to collect evidence. If you are the victim of another type of sexual assault, such as inappropriate touch or exhibitionism, call the police first and a friend second. Never underestimate your need for emotional support and counseling in your recovery.
Resources for Teens and Parents
There are caring people and organizations available to help teen victims of sexual assault and their families. Start with your local crisis center. You'll find links and phone numbers by state at RAINN -- the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network. Your local hospital and police station can also put you in touch with local counselors who are trained specifically to help victims of sexual assault. Talking with someone who can tell you what emotions and behaviors to expect throughout the healing process is immensely relieving for victims and families.
What Constitutes a Sexual Assault?
You might think of rape when you hear the words, "sexual assault." However, there are other forms of sexual assault besides rape. A sexual assault occurs whenever there is non-consensual sexual behavior -- meaning not everyone involved consented to the sexual act. Common and not-so-common forms of sexual assault include rape -- someone having sex with you against your will -- attempted rape, inappropriate and unwanted touching, someone watching you perform private acts without your knowledge, someone exposing their private body parts to you without your consent, or in the form of verbal or other sexual harassment, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health.
Preventing Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is never the victim's fault, but there are things you can do to help lessen the chances that it will happen to you: Be aware of your surroundings and act confident, even if you don't feel that way. Limit access to your house keys and never leave your house key on the key ring when giving it to a garage or service person. Keep your doors and windows locked -- both car and house -- whether you're in them or not. Make sure first dates are group dates and avoid being alone with people at parties if you've had too much to drink. Get in the habit of practicing preventive behaviors like these to help reduce your risk of sexual assault.
If it Happens to You
If you are raped, first try to get somewhere safe, away from your attacker. Call the police and a trusted family member, friend or even a hotline to get help handling all the emotions that accompany violation. Don't shower or bathe until the hospital has a chance to collect evidence. If you are the victim of another type of sexual assault, such as inappropriate touch or exhibitionism, call the police first and a friend second. Never underestimate your need for emotional support and counseling in your recovery.
Resources for Teens and Parents
There are caring people and organizations available to help teen victims of sexual assault and their families. Start with your local crisis center. You'll find links and phone numbers by state at RAINN -- the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network. Your local hospital and police station can also put you in touch with local counselors who are trained specifically to help victims of sexual assault. Talking with someone who can tell you what emotions and behaviors to expect throughout the healing process is immensely relieving for victims and families.
Posted in: Teen Dating & Sex
