SELF PROTECTION

You have been told to “be careful” all of your life and have possibly even been afraid of being attacked.  You are not different from all other women in that respect.  “Rape is a kind of terrorism which severely limits the freedom of women and makes women dependent on men.” (Susan Griffin: Rape: The All-American Crime. Ramparts, 1971)  Feeling an increased concern for your safety and self-protection after being attacked is a normal and appropriate reaction.  Many times rapists threaten to return and harm the victim again.  While in reality very few ever do, the threat itself is frightening.

Detailed information on ways to improve your security at home, on the street, or in your car can be obtained through your public library, police department, or Turning Point.  If you are thinking about weapons, keep in mind the best weapons you have are the ones you have with you at all times:  your hands, feet, knees, etc.  We strongly recommend taking a self-defense course.  Learning to react with anger instead of fear has proven many times to be a woman’s best defense.  Being assertive, being aware of your rights as a person, and being aware of your surroundings can help to possibly avoid or deter an attack.

As you learn more about self-protection, you may find yourself thinking, “Now why didn’t I do that?”  Remember that we are all vulnerable and tend to think that rape is something that happens to someone else.  You reacted the best way that you could in order to survive and that is most important.

If you would like more information about a self-defense course, please contact Turning Point for more information.