Dating – Do’s and Don’ts

One in six women have been a victim of rape, and among female rape victims 54% are under
age eighteen. Here are some tips to help protect yourself. Is yourboyfriend a lizard? Read on to find out!

 

Do keep a cell phone and contact information with you at all times.
Do keep an emergency stash of money for a taxi with you in case your date goes sour.
Do make sure someone knows where you are at all times.
Do learn some self-defense moves.
Don’t go out with a guy if you don’t know him very well.

 

Do get to know him in group settings.
Don’t go on a blind date alone. Insist on double dating with a couple you know.
Don’t go to quiet or secluded spots with your date.
Do suggest going somewhere public if he really wants to get to know you.

 

Don’t leave your drink unattended at a party or eat anything questionable. Drugs can be slipped into your drink.
Don’t go to a guy’s place alone with him.

 

Do develop high standards and set boundaries of personal space.
Do let your date know where your boundaries are.
Don’t let him violate any portion of your boundaries—if he does, tell him to stop. If he doesn’t stop—LEAVE!
Don’t try and explain things to him, just excuse yourself and call a friend or a taxi.

 

Do trust your instincts. If you sense something isn’t right—get out of the situation.
Don’t think you owe him any physical or sexual favors even if he helped you or spent money on you.
Don’t give in to verbal manipulation. It’s a form of abuse and can be a red flag that he wants to violate you.
Do report him to the police immediately if he inappropriately touches you!
Do protect yourself if you are attacked (go for the eyes, kick, bite). Make a lot of noise. If you can—RUN AWAY!
Don’t blame yourself if you are attacked. It is not always possible to ward off an attack.