
I think the top takeaway for this unit was the ability to better understand the psychological reactions of a victim and not to assume they are lying or not cooperating when they are still processing their trauma.
The importance of consent especially for those in at-risk populations should be emphasized. Especially for young students heading off to college where issues occur the most according to statistics.
I have learned that the definitions of consent and terms regarding sexual assault can vary state to state and that they are not common sense. It is crucial to educate students and staff to understand and recognize the signs of sexual predators and that the behaviors of victims may seem to be counter intuitive for cooperation and the willingness to volunteer information. This is due to the trauma of the situation and relationship between the victim and the perpetrators.
It was important to review the differences in violence such as dating and sexual violence and the definition of consent.
It is important to take the person seriously when they are reporting and then ensure that a professional attitude is used.
If a school employee has an indication that a violent act is about to occur, steps should be taken to separate the two parties or re-direct their attention or call authorities for help, if it is safe for the employee to do so.
Biggest take away for me is CONSENT - No means No!! We as a society should understand the days of blaming the victim are gone (or at least should be gone) also that it is not just women that can be the victim men can also be the victim.
Faculty and students should understand by education on any kind of sexual harassment or violence, rape, or assault by anyone even if the perpetrator is a friend or stranger whether on campus or off.
The punishment and outcomes for a Title IX or a VAWA can vary based on intensity and frequency.
consent is a big part of this. Current consent does not equal future consent; it can be withdrawn at any time.
Comment on Lisa Creach's post: Love it the more educated the more people will be comfortable to report
VAWA requires that the training all students and employees receive on prevention and awareness of sexual assault include the definition of “consent” under the institution’s policies and under the law of the state where the institution is located. That definition is required to be contained in the institution’s Annual Security Report.
Education and prevention is so important to prevent sexual and other assults. It was interesting to learn that more than 50% of sexual assults against women that go to college took place off-campus, at a party. This really puts them at risk.
Sexual assault dynamics, behaviors and consent are focal interests. VAWA crimes definitions and safe options for bystander intervention are equally important.
The information on Consent was interesting and how it differs per state. The statistics on College Students and Date Violence was very shocking and sad. We need to do more to make students aware of these situations and have them understand better the meaning of Domestic Violence, Date Violence, and Stalking. The information on retaliation was also very important, this is probably one of the main factors why victims do not report these crimes.
Reading this section I am reminded of the gymastic students who endured abuse and the college did nothing. It seems watching the news, at least once a month you hear about colleges not following up on sexual crimes until someone gets hurt or dies.
Breaks my heart!
Even though I am currently employeed by a small college I constantly remind the students of "professionalism" ... no matter what their culture is on the street or at home ... when you are at school and the work place ... you must be professional at all time. I do not tolorate rudeness or street talk within the halls.
This module presented an expansive list of consent meanings. This is really helpful!