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SEXUAL AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Sexual and Domestic Violence
Sexual violence is a crime which violates a person’s trust and sense of security. The majority of sexual assaults are never reported to the police because a victim may feel like it is their fault that the assault occurred. Let’s get something straight; sexual assault is not the victim's fault. Sexual violence can take many forms. It can range from rape or attempted rape, but is also any unwanted sexual contact. Sexual assault has to do with consent. If consent has not been given to another person then it is assault, even if the touching occurs through clothing. Sexual assaults can occur from strangers but most often occur with an acquaintance, a friend, or even a family member. RMU has resources on campus to help those who have been assaulted. Take a look at our brochure to understand the law, how to report, and where to get help.
Myths About Sexual Assault
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MYTH
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TRUTH
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Sexual abuse can be justified under certain circumstances.
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Sexual assault can never be justified under any circumstances.
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It isn't rape if the victim is unconscious, drunk, dressed provocatively, or desperate.
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If the victim is unwilling to have sex, whether they're unconscious, tired, don't feel like it, or you're just not their type, and forced or coerced into doing so anyway, it is rape.
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Sexual abuse is always violent.
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Rape can be a violent crime, but it is also assault if someone touches you without your consent, even with your clothes on.
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You can't be sexually assaulted by your boyfriend or girlfriend.
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Communication is the key, and only if you have consented to sex, is it OK.
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Men cannot be sexually assaulted.
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Sexual assault is not exclusive to one gender. Both men and women can be perpetrators and victims.
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It will not happen to you.
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Research shows that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men are assaulted in their life time.
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Resources
Crisis Center North
www.crisiscenternorth.org
PAAR (Pittsburgh Action Against Rape)
www.paar.net
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
www.rainn.org
Women's Center of Beaver County
www.womenscenterbc.org
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