Sexual Assault, Oregon State University

OSU Home » Sexual Assault » About Violence

Home | Survivor Help | About Violence | Take Action | Find Resources

About Violence

Violence can be defined as "the intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community, that either results in or has a high likelihood of resulting in injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment or deprivation" (Krug et al. 2002).

How to Protect Yourself

Being a victim of interpersonal violence is NEVER your fault. The person who abuses has made a choice to behave in a certain way and must take responsibility for his/her actions. However, there are things that you can do which may help lower your risk of becoming a victim.

Set sexual and relationship limits and clearly communicate them to your partner.
Be assertive about your wants and needs. (Assertiveness is not the same thing as coercion or force.)
Listen to and trust your intuition and "gut feelings."
Notice your own fears.
Be cautious in a new place. While you don't want to become paranoid, too much trust can be dangerous.
Consider paying your own way on dates.
Don't let someone into your home who you don't feel comfortable being assertive with.
Be very aware of your limits when drinking or using drugs.
Open, mix, and pour your own drinks.
Don't share or exchange drinks with anyone.
Don't drink from a container that is being passed around.
Don't drink from a punch bowl or beer-bong.
Never leave your drink unattended.
Choose drinks that you are familiar with.
Don't drink anything that has an unusual taste or appearance.
Don't assume that your friends are looking out for you or can protect you from harm.
If you must drink or do drugs, do so in moderation.