909_Women

		I was given this article and I thought every women should read it and remember it. Rapists and date rapists in prison were interviewed on what they look for when looking for a victim. Here is what they said they looked for when sizing up a woman as a potential victim. The #1 thing men look for in a potential victim is hairstyle. They are most likely to go after a woman with a ponytail, bun, braid or other hairstyle that can easily be grabbed. They are also more likely to go after a woman with long hair instead of short hair. The 2nd thing they look for is clothing. They look for a woman who's clothing is easy to remove quickly. The #1 outfit they look for are overalls because the straps can be easily cut, and many of them carry scissors with them. They also look for woman on cell phones or doing other activities while walking because they are more likely to be off guard and can easily be overpowered. The time of day rapists are most likely to strike is in early morning between 5 and 8:30am. The #1 place woman are abducted from or attacked is grocery store parking lots. #2 office parking lots,#3 public restrooms. These men said they will not pick woman who have umbrellas or similar objects that can be used from a distance in their hands. So the idea is to convince these guys you're not worth it. Several defense mechanisms he taught are: If someone is following you look them in the face and speak to them, you can now identify them. If someone is coming towards you YELL and let them know you'll fight back. Carry pepper spray and tell them you have it. If someone grabs you by the wrists pull your wrist back so your hand is in a waving position (palm facing forward) and twist it toward yourself and pull your arm away. If you're grabbed around the waist from behind, pinch the skin under his arm between the elbow and armpit or on his upper inner thigh, and pinch as HARD as you can. After the initial hit go for the groin. Scratch, pinch yell what ever you have use it , remember you are not helpless. Always be aware of your surroundings, take someone with you if you can and always follow your instincts. (this article originally came from) : Pamela Moore Project Coordinator Conflict Resolution and Mediation Project