Office for Student Affairs > Faculty/Staff Resources > Sexual Violence/Relationship Violence

Faculty/Staff Resources

Sexual Violence/Relationship Violence

Nationally, women between the ages of 16 and 24 are more likely to be raped than women in any other age bracket. The peak rate of victimization occurs in the 16- to 19-year-old age group, with the next highest rate of victimization occurring between 20 and 24 years of age. One out of four women is the victim of a completed sexual assault during her lifetime. College women, particularly first-year students, are especially vulnerable. It is important to note that men also may be victims of sexual violence and assault.

Sexual assault can traumatize a victim for years. Often an event which may seem innocuous to others can cause a student to recall an assault from the past and may initiate a revival of the trauma. An assignment about a sensitive topic, a class discussion about violence, or even contact with someone who physically resembles the victim's abuser can initiate a reaction. Some courses are particularly likely to set off a reaction -- psychology, social work, family and social science, women's studies, or classes where alcohol and drugs are discussed.

Signs of victimization

Students who have been assaulted, either in the recent past or years earlier, may exhibit any of the following signs:

• depression
• agitation
• a decline in academic performance
• withdrawal from classmates or other associates
• crying
• isolation and avoidance of others
• sudden, unexpected decision to withdraw from school

How to help

If a student seems disturbed or agitated, is crying, or says that "something happened," it may be an indication of sexual violence or assault. You need not pry, but you can simply ask, "How can I help you?" If the timing is awkward, such as at the beginning of class or when other students are around, tell the student that you will be available at a specific time, such as after class, and that you would like to help.

Very often, students are willing to discuss sexual violence issues only with someone they feel they know well, someone with whom they have a relationship over time and believe they can trust -- such as an academic adviser, a residence hall adviser, or an employer -- or with a professional.

If a student tells you about an assault, do not get upset or question whether there might be a misunderstanding. Believe what the student is saying. Victim/survivors often have a difficult time verbalizing what has happened to them and, if doubted or challenged, may decide that talking about the incident is too difficult.

Hearing about an assault is likely to be uncomfortable for you. Keep in mind that it is critical for the student to receive assistance. Indicate that it would be helpful for the student to talk with a counselor or advocate and refer her or him to the Aurora Center for Advocacy and Education or Boynton Health Service. Ideally, you should walk the student to the Aurora Center office in room 407 Boynton Health Service or find someone nearby who can accompany the student. No appointments are needed to talk with an advocate during office hours. Aurora Center staffs a 24-hour crisis line at 612-626-9111.

For assistance with an issue that is not listed, please call Office for Student Affairs at 612-626-1242.