Just For GIRLS

A girl always has the right to accept or refuse a sexual advance. When a girl does refuse, the guy has choices about how to handle her refusal. He can accept her decision and change his own behavior or he can ignore her decision and try to force himself on her. He is guilty of assault if he threaten her, or physically forces her. Girls are not responsible for a guy's behaviour. A girl who has been sexually assaulted is never responsible for that assault.

Listen to your intuition.

Although not always possible, the best strategy is to leave a situation before it becomes dangerous. It is important for girls to have information which may help to prevent a sexual assault.

Leave a situation before it becomes dangerous.

SOMEONE YOU KNOW:
About 80% of sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the girl.

WHEN YOU'RE ON A DATE:
If you are going out with someone you barely know, arrange to meet at a public place. Inviting a trusted friend and her or his date may take some pressure off the new relationship and provide you with support. If he makes a sexual advance and it doesn't feel right, tell him. The best way to say no is loud and clear - NO! If he does not listen to you, decide what you need to do to feel safe. If you feel embarrassed and scared and don't know how to leave, go to the bathroom and leave from there or try to get someone's attention to let them know what is happening. If you can, call someone you trust. You do not owe an explanation or politeness to someone who has chosen to ignore your feelings.

IF YOU'RE IN A RELATIONSHIP WITH A PARTNER:
Forced sex within a relationship is still sexual assault. Some guys use sexual assault to gain more power and control in a relationship. There are often early signs that a partner could become violent.

Some signs include a partner who:

• is obsessed with being with you.
• discourages you from seeing family and friends.
• is jealous.
• discourages you from doing things you enjoy.
• is aggressive and shows signs of violent behaviour toward you or your things.

If you find yourself in a situation with your partner where you feel unsafe, try to leave, then contact someone you trust (friend or support person).