The risk of sexual assault among students is high

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – When students first step onto campus, they may unknowingly enter what is known as the “red zone” – a critical time when over half of all reported sexual assaults on campus occur. Education and support can make all the difference during this crucial period.

According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), over 50% of sexual assaults on college campuses occur in the first week before Thanksgiving break. During these first months of college, students are at increased risk for sexual violence.

“We have an influx of new students coming to campus,” said Casey Shupe, RAINN's chief of staff. “We see that freshmen and people who are transferring in their second or fourth year of college are particularly at risk.”

RAINN reported that college women are twice as likely to be victims of sexual assault as they are to be robberied. Yet numerous other factors contribute to this increase in sexual violence.

“We have a false sense of security and safety and a new environment,” said Schupe. “We know that the perpetrators are aware of this and will use this time to manipulate and harm their victims.”

resources

There has been a significant push to combat sexual assault on college campuses through Title IX, a federal law that guarantees all students access to an education free from sexual harassment and sexual violence, including assault, domestic violence, or stalking.

The National Sexual Assault Hotline, one of RAINN's many support services, offers 24/7 confidential support to survivors of sexual violence.

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