New Life Ministries

How can you avoid sexual assault or help your teenagers and adult children to avoid assault?  The guidelines below will help you to prevent this horrible act.  If you or someone you love, however, has already been a victim of assault, please see the link at the bottom of this article for help.

1. Establish your limits and intentions firmly in your mind. Set clear boundaries for what you will and will not do and stick to them. Know where you stand before the issue presents itself.

2. Don’t put yourself in danger. Guard the time you spend alone with a “date” or acquaintance you don’t know well. Don’t automatically assume someone will be able to control themselves in intimate situations.

3. Communicate your limits firmly and directly. You have the right to say “No” to any unwanted sexual advances. If you say “No,” say it like you mean it. Don’t give mixed messages. Back up your words with a firm tone of voice and clear body language.

4. Don’t rely on “ESP” to get your message across. Don’t assume that your date will automatically know how you feel, or will eventually “get the message” without having to tell them.

5. Understand that everyone doesn’t think like you. Remember that some people mistakenly think that dressing a certain way or being friendly means you want to be intimate.

6. Listen to your gut feelings. If you feel uncomfortable or think you may be at risk, leave the situation immediately and go to a safe place.

7. Don’t be afraid to “make waves” if you feel threatened. If you feel you are being pressured or coerced into sexual activity against your will, don’t hesitate to state your feelings and get out of the situation. Better a few minutes of social awkwardness or embarrassment than the trauma of sexual assault.

8. “Get involved” if you believe someone is at risk. If you see someone in trouble or a friend using force or pressure, don’t be afraid to intervene. You may save the person from the trauma of sexual assault and your friend from the ordeal of criminal prosecution.

9. Take a self-defense course. Many community organizations and martial arts schools offer short-term self-defense courses that concentrate on avoiding and escaping sexual assault. The confidence you gain from being prepared may send out a signal that you are less of a “target.”

10. Surround yourself with healthy people. Attempts to “rescue” lonely people often end up in compromising situations. Plug into a group that is focused on spiritual and emotional growth, not just “finding a mate.”

If you or someone you love has been a victim of sexual assault, our hearts break for you.  We would consider it our great honor to help you find healing and strength through our Lord Jesus Christ.  Please join us at our next New Life Weekend.