Description
Perfect for presentations to service members, this card provides crucial information on Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Military Sexual Trauma is an ongoing problem for service members. This handout will help you convey the facts behind MST as well as the steps your audience can take to reduce their risk to prevent it from happening. MST refers to sexual assault or harassment that occurs while a service member is in the military.
Victims and perpetrators of this crime can be both male and female.
Military Sexual Trauma causes unique problems for its victims. They may have to continue to live and work with the perpetrator, or even rely on him or her for basic needs. Victims may develop strong feelings of betrayal toward fellow service members. In addition, they may be unwilling to report the incident for fear of retaliation or in order to protect their mission.
To reduce the risk of sexual assault, deployed service members should familiarize themselves with new areas and always travel in groups. Reporting unauthorized people or suspicious activities can prevent incidents before they occur. Female service members should be ready to politely, but firmly, discuss their feelings if they are being treated in a manner that makes them feel uncomfortable.
Other tips for reducing the risk of sexual assault include staying with friends and not leaving social gatherings with strangers. Refraining from excess alcohol consumption, avoiding isolated areas, as well as leaving if one feels uncomfortable also reduces the risk of assault.
The card also includes steps to take if a service member has been sexually assaulted. It advises victims to get to a safe place away from the perpetrator and to preserve evidence of the attack. Victims should also write down details of the attack. Call 9-1-1 for medical care, and contact a Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) to learn about their reporting options.
Audience members are urged to follow the ABCs of Active Bystander Intervention:
- Assess the safety of the situation – If intervening may be dangerous, contact the authorities
- Be with others – Groups that intervene are more likely to deter a potential perpetrator
- Care for the victim – Help the victim get the medical care he or she needs
Stay Alert. Be Vigilant. Protect Your Fellow Warriors.
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If you like this card, then check out more of our Sexual Assault and Dating Violence Awareness materials here.