What are Some Warning Signs that Might Indicate a College-Age Adult was Sexually Harassed?

Although the #MeToo movement has placed a significant amount of attention on sexual harassment in the workplace, the truth is, individuals of all ages are affected by it. Adults, teens, and even small children are victimized each and every day and it is important that you become aware of the warning signs in the event you are an educator, parent, or even a student so that you can help someone who may be fearful of speaking up for themselves. Did you know that “in seven out of 10 cases of sexual assault, the perpetrator is someone the victim knows” [Source: RAINN.org]? In cases such as these, it becomes extremely difficult for a victim to speak out regarding the incident seeing that they have some type of relationship with this person.

So, in an effort to combat sexual harassment and assault, we are sharing a few warning signs that might indicate a college-age adult may be a victim of sexual harassment.

 

1. You notice signs of depression, “such as persistent sadness, lack of energy, changes in sleep or appetite, withdrawing from normal acclivities, or feeling down.”
2. They engage in self-harming behaviors such as thoughts of suicide or suicidal behaviors.
3. They show low self-esteem.
4. They contracted a sexually transmitted infection.
5. They develop anxiety or always seem to be worrying about situations that once didn’t bother them.
6. They tend to avoid specific situations or places.
7. Their grades begin to fall or they withdraw from classes without providing any sort of explanation as to why.
8. You notice an increase in their drug or alcohol use.

 

RAINN.org states that if you happen to witness any of these warning signs, it might be a good idea to reach out to the person to find out if something did happen. You can also use this as an opportunity to show your support, letting the person know they aren’t alone and have a friend, teacher, or even a peer they can talk to. It is important that we keep an eye out for any behaviors that indicate a person might be a victim of sexual misconduct so that we can help them and prevent the mistreatment from continuing on.

Far too often, victims of sexual harassment fail to come forward or take action which only fuels the perpetrator and encourages them to continue on with their unwanted behavior. Therefore, it is important that we heighten our awareness and keep an eye out for any signs that might indicate someone is being mistreated.

Now, if you find out that a friend of yours is the victim of sexual misconduct yet they aren’t prepared to take any action against the perpetrator, they may benefit from speaking with one of our Kansas City, MO sexual harassment attorneys. Our sexual harassment attorneys can provide your friend with some helpful advice and guidance so that they can make an informed decision as to how they want to handle the situation. But, it is important that the situation is handled and not ignored. So, if you would like to be connected with a sexual harassment lawyer in Kansas City, MO now, contact USAttorneys.comand we will place you in touch with someone who is nearby to you who can help you.