We asked Sam Bowen, Assistant Director of Violence Prevention, six questions about the “Red Zone,” a time when students may face a higher risk of sexual assault on campus.
What is the “Red Zone”?
“The red zone refers to a time period of heightened risk for sexual assault on college campuses. Typically, it’s referring to the period from move-in to November break.” Because of this, prevention efforts and student resources are a big focus during the start of the academic year.
Does the data support the idea of the “Red Zone”?
Since the term was coined in 2008, studies have shown mixed results. “There is evidence that certain populations are at higher risk than others. For example, women seem to be at higher risk in the first year than other genders.” While some research points to the first few weeks on campus being the riskiest, Sam says, “the term probably applies more broadly to the period between September-November.”
What does our campus data show?
The most recent campus climate survey was done in 2019. “Our own campus data does confirm that first-year women specifically are at an elevated risk for sexual assault.”
Sam went on to explain that “incidence measure new cases, while prevalence captures how many people overall have been affected.” First-year women report more new incidents of sexual assault within the last year compared to second-, third-, or fourth-year students. However, as time goes on, the prevalence increases. By the time women reach their fourth year, about one in three report having experienced sexual assault.
Why might new students be more at risk?
“New students may be at an elevated risk for sexual assaults due to situational and environmental factors such as living on their own and experiencing independence for the first time. They may have less social power on campus and they might not have strong social connections yet that can serve as protective barriers.” Regardless of environmental factors, sexual assault is never the fault of the victim.
What does UHS do to support students and prevent sexual assault during their first semester?
First-year students are required to complete two doses of prevention education trainings, one in August during the orientation period and another during the first couple months of the fall semester. We also work closely with House Fellows and New Student Leaders, two key groups who engage directly with prospective and new students, to strengthen their ability to prevent and respond to sexual violence. Sam emphasizes, “The risk doesn’t go away after the first year and that’s why we encourage students to participate in the prevention education we offer every year.”
UHS Survivor Services supports student survivors by providing advocacy, mental health care, and medical services following an unwanted sexual encounter. During medical evaluations, students may choose to have evidence collected (commonly referred to as a ‘rape kit’). Staff also offer assistance with reporting, if the student wishes to do so.
What can students do?
Believe and support survivors. Students are more likely to seek support from their friends when deciding what type of post-assault care they need. You can support survivors by believing them, reminding them of campus resources, and supporting their choices.
Don’t make assumptions. “Refrain from making assumptions about what someone is comfortable with or wants, especially in a dating/hookup context.”
Be an active bystander. “It’s important to be alert when you notice that something is wrong, especially when alcohol is involved. Stepping in doesn’t have to be a big confrontation. It can look like a simple interruption by using humor to diffuse the situation or getting somebody else involved to help out.”
Keep talking about it. “At the interpersonal level, students can continue conversations about healthy sex, relationships, and hookup culture. If students want to build more skills around all of those areas, UHS offers a bystander intervention training called the ActWIse program.”