Content Warning: this blog overtly deals with sexual violence.
As someone attending college or sending their child off to college, safety is undoubtedly a top priority. Campus safety is essential, and a critical aspect of avoiding harm is being aware of the prevalence of sexual violence on college campuses.
According to reports from RAINN, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 16 men will experience sexual violence while attending college. With that being said, it's essential to learn what campus sexual violence is, its prevalence, key trends, and, most importantly, how you can make yourself safer. In this blog post, we'll discuss all that and more, so let's dive in.
What is campus sexual violence?
Campus sexual violence refers to any sexual activity that one party does not consent to or forces upon someone else. According to RAINN, most campus sexual violence occurs between people who already know each other. This situates the main conflict outside of stranger danger, highlighting the need for students to take proactive measures to stay safe on their campuses.
Prevalence
Sexual violence on college campuses is more prevalent than you might think. In fact, RAINN reports the following statistics for undergraduate students:
- 26.4% of females and 6.8% of males experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation.
- 23.1% of TGQN (transgender, genderqueer, nonconforming) college students have been sexually assaulted.
- More than 50% of college sexual assaults occur in August, September, October, or November.
- Only 20% of female student victims aged 18-24 report to law enforcement.
Campus Sexual Violence Trends
Studies show that most campus sexual violence occurs between people who are already acquainted before the assault. This is more common in fraternity parties or other social gatherings involving alcohol. Additionally, most sexual assaults on college campuses are committed by men, and most victims are women.
Tips on How to Stay Safe
While college campuses are not entirely safe, and sexual violence can happen to anyone, there are some crucial precautions you can take to ensure your safety. Consider some of these tips to stay safe:
- Check-in with your friends: Make a plan to keep an eye on one another when you go to parties and events.
- Use campus transportation: If you're out late, consider using campus transportation instead of walking or ride-sharing apps.
- Carry pepper spray or other self-defense tools: While you should never have to use them, it's always better to be prepared.
- Don't leave your drink unattended: Even if it's just for a few seconds, leaving your drink unattended can lead to dangerous situations.
It's crucial to understand that campus sexual violence is a harsh reality many students face. However, by taking proactive measures, such as knowing what sexual violence is, understanding the prevalence and trends, and using safety tips to make yourself safer, you can help protect yourself or your child while attending college. Remember, staying safe during your college career is a team effort. By understanding sexual violence and watching out for one another, we can make our college campuses safer for everyone.
Providing Compassionate Victim Advocacy
At Lanier Law Group, P.A., we understand the law and know how to pursue sexual abuse and assault cases. In fact, our firm has earned a reputation for handling more sexual abuse cases than any other injury law firm in North Carolina.
Contact us online or call (855) 757-4204 to request your free initial consultation. Se habla español.