What Affects Your Risk of Becoming a Victim?

Sexual abuse or assault can happen to anyone. The act of violence may come from a stranger, an acquaintance, or a close friend or family member. Many victims of abuse or assault know their attacker.

Abusive situations you cannot control

You can't control whether the abuser:

• Uses alcohol or drugs.
• Engages in high-risk sexual behavior.
• Has a history of violent behavior.
• Was abused as a child.
• Has a medical or mental health problem, such as depression or personality disorder.

Unsafe situations you may be able to avoid

You may find yourself in an unsafe situation if you:

• Use alcohol or drugs.
• Date many people at one time.
• Accept any violent behavior in the dating relationship. There is no excuse for abuse.
• Ignore feelings of discomfort or warning signs that someone is treating you badly.
• Think your partner holds the power in a relationship.
• Are alone in an unfamiliar environment
• Depend on your dating partner for transportation.
• Feel that your dating partner is in control because he or she asked you out and paid for the date.
• Are part of a group that has a higher risk for sexual assault, such as:
  • Homeless people.
  • Sex workers.
  • People who abuse substances.
  • Teens.

Credits

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised	October 14, 2011