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Sexual Assault Risk Reduction

Self Defense:

In the unfortunate instance that these risk reduction techniques are followed and something should happen anyway, here are things to keep in mind:

If the person is ARMED:

You might try a passive strategy, such as trying to talk the assailant out of using the weapon. Another option is to use active physical resistance, which will hopefully disable the attacker giving time for you to escape. Your options are obviously more limited when the person is armed with a weapon. In such a situation you may be taking your life in your hands if you decide to fight back. It may be possible to run away, if the assailant is distracted, but only do this if you are reasonably sure you can get away.

If the person is UNARMED:

There are many options, including yelling as loudly as you can from your diaphragm. Noise attracts attention and can startle your attacker. Blow a whistle loudly. You might even consider fighting back physically, if trained to do so --punch the attacker in the Adam’s apple, poke your finger in an eye, or kick the shins, knees, or groin. You are trying to escape, not fight to win the fight! Resistance may discourage the attacker or convince him that it is too much trouble to continue. Resist only as long as it is safe to do so. If resistance is dangerous, stop and try passive strategies, such as pretending to faint, throw up, or acting out of control of your senses. Whatever needs to be done to survive in any case is good.

Remember: submitting to rape because it seems to be the only viable option is a form of self-defense and it is not consent!

Physical Self-Defense:

Women do have the power and ability to fight back --even those with physical limitations or developmental disabilities. Appropriate self-defense embodies the philosophy or empowerment. Physical techniques are not based on strength vs. strength, but use women’s physical assets against an assailant’s weaknesses. It involves using voice, kicks, punches, releases and works on getting students “psyched up” to defend themselves.

When looking for a class, find out if the instructor has a working relationship with the local rape crisis center and if s/he is trained in rape crisis intervention. The following places can refer you to appropriate self-defense classes:

RAD (Rape Aggression Defense) program - The University offers Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Systems training to university affiliated women at no cost and at convenient times throughout the year.

The two key themes in self-protection are awareness of surroundings and assertiveness. Sexual assault counselors are trained to provide information on self-protection strategies. They can answer questions regarding the suggestions listed above, help locating self-defense courses or counseling in your area. Please contact the resources below for more information.

George Mason Police Department: 703-993-2810

Sexual Assault Services: 703-993-4364

The Women’s Center - Vienna, VA: 703-281-2657

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