Addressing Sexual Harassment at BYU-Idaho | Title IX Office | BYU-Idaho

# Addressing Sexual Harassment at BYU-Idaho

BYU-Idaho is committed to promoting and maintaining a safe and respectful environment for our campus community by complying with Title IX of the United States Education Amendments of 1972.

## Report a Concern

## Dating Safety

BYU-Idaho is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment on campus. Dating should be a fun and simple opportunity to get to know new people in low-risk, low-pressure ways. A first date (and every date that follows) should be safe, enjoyable, and respectful as you get to know each other in various settings.

Remember that it takes time to build relationships and to get to know someone fully. Dating and healthy relationships should never include pressure from a partner. If they want to move too fast, rush for a serious commitment, or push against your personal boundaries, be cautious. If you are uncomfortable on a date or think you may be in an abusive relationship, please talk to someone you trust.

Dating apps are more popular than ever, and connecting with new people can be as simple as a quick swipe on your phone. For students, dating apps and social media have become a significant way of meeting new people, but they have also created new challenges and safety concerns at the university.

Remember, no matter how or where you met, no one has the right to commit unwanted sexual acts against you or violate your boundaries in any way. Below are some simple guidelines to review in an effort to reduce the risk of harm when going on a first date or meeting up with someone with whom you have recently connected.

- Exercise good judgment and be careful when using popular dating apps (Mutual, Tinder, etc.).
- Don't take everything you read or see online at face value. Remember, not everyone who uses dating apps has proper motives.
- Don't allow yourself to be talked into anything. Be independent and aware in social settings. Express opinions on where to go and appropriate places to meet.
- Arrange group or double dates to give you time to get to know someone well.
- Meet in a public place with good lighting. If the person you meet online insists your date must occur somewhere private, this is a red flag. A busy daytime location may not seem the ideal setting for a first date, but others will be around if an unsafe situation arises.
- Tell at least one friend where you are going and who you are meeting. Getting your date's first and last name before a meeting is always a good idea.
- If possible, make your own travel arrangements to/from a first date.
- Avoid situations where alcoholic beverages or drugs are available. If you unintentionally find yourself in a difficult situation, leave immediately and encourage your friends to leave with you.
- Do not hesitate to leave if you are in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable, nervous, or afraid, even if an early departure seems rude. Exercise good judgment, and above all, trust your instincts.

****If you have been the victim of sexual assault or other forms of abuse, please know that being a victim is never considered a violation of the Honor Code!**** The abuse was not your fault, no matter what the abuser or anyone else may have said.

Our Title IX Office can connect you with helpful resources on campus to support you, and you will be met with compassion and understanding as you pursue a path of safety and healing.