Most
sexual assaults occur between people who know each other – friends, acquaintances,
and even co-workers. Being on your guard depends on understanding the common factors
of sexual assault, and recognizing that the person you associate with in your unit
may present a greater threat than a stranger lurking in the alleyway.
The “One Situation”
In a 2008 survey on sexual assault in the Reserve components, female respondents
who were victims of unwanted sexual contact revealed information about the “one
situation that affected them most” - information that may help determine risk factors
that increase the likelihood of sexual assault (Defense Manpower Data Center, 2008,
pg. 7):
Note: Results from males are not reportable due to small numbers or unstable estimates
– but given men’s common reluctance to report being victims of sexual assault, these
factors may still apply.
- 40% said it happened at their military or civilian work
- 4% indicated the unwanted sexual contact occurred in their home/living quarters,
16% indicated it occurred in the home/living quarters of someone else, and 41% indicated
it occurred at some other location
- 68% said it happened at a military installation
- 33% said it happened while activated, and 24% said it happened during deployment
- 34% indicated their experience included the use of alcohol and/or drugs,
either by them or by the alleged subject (ie. perpetrator)
- 49% said the alleged subject used force and/or threats to make them consent,
and 28% indicated the alleged subject their authority improperly to coerce them
to consent
- 34% indicated the alleged subject sexually harassed them before the incident,
2% indicated the alleged subject stalked them before the incident, and 22% indicated
the alleged subject both sexually harassed and stalked them before the incident.
The respondents who experienced unwanted sexual contact were also asked to describe
the alleged subject in their situation. The majority of them described the alleged
subject as a male who acted alone. An astonishing 96% of respondents indicated
their alleged subjects were part of the military community, including
Service Members who used their higher rank or position to intimidate victims to
consent to the unwanted sexual contact.
Remember: Men can be victims, too. The same common
factors may apply, and for that reason, the same response and resources are available
for men who have been sexually assaulted.
How you can prevent an incident from happening to you

1. Avoid alcohol and drugs, as they can impair your judgment and make sexual assault
easier for an offender.
2. Have your wingman/battle buddy nearby, and plan to arrive and leave with that
person.
3. Trust your gut - if you think it’s an unsafe situation, it probably is!
4. Clearly communicate your desires/limits and don’t be afraid to assert yourself!
5. Have an emergency contact you can call if you’re in a dangerous situation
Learn how to Report an Incident