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Identifying the Common Factors of Sexual Assault

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

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