Reducing Risk of Committing an Assault

(adapted with permission from Men Can Stop Rape, www.mencanstoprape.org, Washington, D.C., 202-265-6530)

Most men don't commit sexual assaults, but every man can play a vital role in ending sexual and dating violence. Here are some things you and your friends can do every day. Whatever you do, you're making a difference. Don't stand on the sidelines.

TALK IT OVER

Better communication in sexual situations - listening to the other person, stating desires clearly, and asking when a situation is unclear - will make relationships safer and healthier. Be sure you and your partner are both consenting to sexual activity.

UNDERSTAND THE ABILITY TO CONSENT

Drugs and alcohol can affect your ability to decide whether you want to be sexual with someone and can interfere with your ability to interpret your partner's signals. Make smart choices about drug and alcohol use.

CHOOSE WORDS CAREFULLY

When you put women down, you support the belief that they are less than fully human. It is easier to ignore women's well-being when they are seen as inferior. Choose language that respects women.

SPEAK OUT

You probably will never see a sexual assault in progress, but if you do, get help or call 911 or the police (on the Oxford campus: 513-529-2222; Oxford police: 513-523-4321). And challenge attitudes and behaviors that degrade women and promote a culture of violence. When your friend tells a joke about rape, say you don't find it funny. Use your voice.

GET INVOLVED

Join a student group working to prevent violence against women. Men's anti-rape groups like Miami's Men Against Rape and Sexual Assault (MARS@muohio.edu) are becoming more common on college campuses. Make a difference.

SHOW YOUR STRENGTH

Don't ever have sex with anyone against their will. Make a pledge to be a man whose strength is used for respect, not for hurting.