Where St. Louis Eats

Everywhere you turn around women are still warned about “Stranger Danger” and for generations, parents have been telling their children not to talk to strangers. It’s a valuable piece of advice, although it doesn’t paint a complete picture. It may surprise you to find that 80% of sexual assault victims know their attackers.

Becoming a victim to someone you know can carry even more anguish than being randomly attacked. The feelings of responsibility or betrayal of trust get layered on top of the utter violation. Even worse, there is often less support offered from peers, who may not come to your defense out of loyalty to the attacker.

Date and party rape are infrequently reported. Actually, that’s a big understatement- about 90% of the time nothing is said about date rape. It’s just brushed off as drunken antics at a party or a misunderstanding. This situation occurs thousands of times every year, on every campus across the country.

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.

There are many things you need to know, but if you can arm you kids with these six thoughts- it’s a start.

When alcohol gets involved, situations can easily get out of hand. Much too often, the blame is switched from the attacker to the victim. Even when the rape is reported, this can lead to the offender not getting punished. Your only sure hope for justice is prevention.

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 “knight in shining armor”. It is very important that you evaluate new relationships. If something feels wrong, walk away. It can be very easy to get stuck in a potentially abusive relationship. Dont’ be rushed.

It’s bound to happen that you’ll be out with a one of the girls and she’ll have too much to drink. You may not bail out on her when she is vulnerable. Be a true friend. No matter how hard it is for you, leave with her and take her to a safe place.

If you think you might be drinking -don’t go out alone. Go with a friend who won’t ditch you.

A college campus isn’t filled only with people like the friends you grew up with. Seemingly “good people” can do terrible things. Remember that trust is something to be earned, not given away. Don’t be a victim.