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Sexual Violence Risk Reduction
A Shared Commitment to Safety and Respect

Sexual Violence Risk Reduction

OHIO is committed to fostering a campus environment where all community members are treated with dignity, respect, and care. Responsibility for acts of intimate partner violence, stalking, sexual harassment, and sexual assault rests solely with the individual who chooses to engage in that behavior. Nothing a person does or does not do causes another person to commit sexual misconduct.

At the same time, every member of the University community can take steps to promote healthy relationships, establish and respect personal boundaries, and reduce the risk of harm. The information below is intended to help members of the OHIO community make informed decisions about their safety and well-being while contributing to a culture of respect and accountability.

Reducing the Risk of Committing Sexual Misconduct

Every member of the University community has a responsibility to respect the rights, autonomy, and boundaries of others.

Understand and Practice Consent
  • Obtain clear, voluntary, and ongoing consent before engaging in sexual activity.
  • Recognize that consent can be withdrawn at any time.
  • Do not assume consent based on a prior relationship, previous sexual activity, or the absence of resistance.
  • If there is uncertainty about whether someone is comfortable or willing to participate, stop and communicate.

Respect Boundaries
  • Listen when someone expresses a boundary or says "no."
  • Respect requests for space, privacy, or no further contact.
  • Understand that pressuring, coercing, manipulating, or intimidating someone can undermine consent.

Communicate Clearly
  • Discuss expectations, boundaries, and comfort levels openly and respectfully.
  • Pay attention to verbal and nonverbal cues that may indicate discomfort.
  • Check in with others rather than making assumptions.

Be Mindful of the Impact of Alcohol and Other Drugs
  • Alcohol and other drugs can impair judgment, communication, and decision-making.
  • A person who is incapacitated due to alcohol or other drugs cannot consent to sexual activity.
  • If there is any doubt about a person's ability to consent, do not engage in sexual activity.

Respect Digital Boundaries
  • Obtain permission before sharing images, messages, or personal information about someone else.
  • Do not repeatedly contact someone who has indicated they do not wish to communicate.
  • Be mindful that unwanted or repeated electronic communications may constitute stalking or harassment.

Intervene When Appropriate
  • If you witness behavior that may place someone at risk, consider intervening safely, creating a distraction, seeking assistance, or checking in with the person who may need support.
  • Encourage friends and peers to respect boundaries and make responsible decisions.

Reducing the Risk of Experiencing Sexual Misconduct

While responsibility for misconduct always lies with the person who commits it, there are steps individuals may choose to take to enhance their personal safety and reduce vulnerability to harm.

Trust Your Instincts
  • Pay attention to situations or behaviors that make you feel uncomfortable.
  • Leave situations where you feel unsafe whenever possible.
  • Reach out to friends, trusted individuals, or campus resources if you need assistance.

Stay Connected
  • When attending social events, consider going with friends and checking in with one another throughout the event.
  • Discuss transportation plans in advance.
  • Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings
  • Remain aware of your environment and the people around you, particularly in unfamiliar settings.
  • If possible, travel with others at night or use available campus transportation and safety resources, such as CATS Late Night.

Make Informed Decisions About Alcohol and Other Drugs
  • Be aware that alcohol and other drugs can affect awareness, judgment, and the ability to recognize potentially unsafe situations.
  • Keep track of your beverages and do not leave drinks unattended.
  • If you think you or a friend may have been drugged, seek medical attention immediately and contact emergency services if necessary.

Communicate Your Boundaries
  • Clearly communicate personal limits and expectations in relationships and social situations.
  • Remember that you have the right to change your mind, set boundaries, and end interactions that make you uncomfortable.

Look Out for One Another
  • Check in with friends who appear uncomfortable or distressed.
  • Help connect friends with transportation, support, or resources if needed.
  • Seek assistance if you are concerned about someone's immediate safety.

If Someone Needs Immediate Assistance

If there is an immediate threat to safety or a medical emergency, call 911.

Students who have experienced or been impacted by intimate partner violence, stalking, sexual harassment, or sexual assault may also contact Civil Rights Compliance to learn about supportive measures, available resources, reporting options, and University processes.