What should I do if my child does not remember what happened?
Having no memory of an event is a common experience after a traumatic experience. It can also be a side effect (or intended effect) of the consumption of a drug or alcohol. If your child does not remember what happened, do not push them to try to recall what happened. Blocking out a memory is […]
How can my child tell if the behavior from someone else is unwanted?
If it makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe, or if it continued after they have expressed a boundary.
What should my child do if someone will not stop after being asked to?
Your child can report this to the school or activity leadership, or to law enforcement if the person is stalking them outside these settings.
Can sexual harassment happen between kids or teens of the same age?
Yes!
Can sexual assault happen between friends or dating partners?
Sexual assault can happen between anyone. In fact, most sexual assault is from someone the person knows like a friend or a partner, or even a family member.
What is victim blaming?
Victim blaming is when someone says something that directly or indirectly implies the victim of sexual violence (or any kind of violence) was partially or fully at fault. Examples: “What were they wearing?” “They shouldn’t have gotten so drunk.” “Why didn’t they carry pepper spray?” “What did they think was going to happen, flirting like […]
Why do people blame victims instead of perpetrators?
Victim blaming often happens because it is deeply uncomfortable for people to confront the reality that someone they know, respect, or trusted caused harm. Placing blame on the victim can feel easier than accepting that a perpetrator chose to commit sexual violence. People may also speak from unprocessed emotions such as shock, denial, fear, or […]
What is the age of consent?
The age of consent differs from state to state. In Connecticut, the age of consent is 16.
Can someone my child’s age legally consent to sex?
The age of consent in Connecticut is 16, so if your child is 16 or older, they can consent to sexual activity with anyone older than them.* If your child is between the ages of 14 and 15, they are exempt from the age of consent law as long as the person they are engaging […]
Who is responsible when there is an age difference?
If there is an age difference, it is the older person’s responsibility to make sure the person they’re with is old enough and they will face consequences if they are not.