Avoid sending mixed messages because others may pay attention only to the part of the message they wish to hear and disregard the rest. Don't be afraid to state your limits clearly. Don't allow your rights to be violated or your feelings to be ignored out of a desire to be nice or polite. How NOT to be an Offender Below are a few suggestions of ways to avoid sexually violating another person. Strive to focus on the feelings of the person you are with and to respect this person's feelings.
Open communication is necessary to understand another's feelings and wishes.
Understand that rape and sexual assault are crimes that can result in criminal as well as civil litigation. In other words, if you have sexual contact with someone and fail to obtain that person's consent, you could potentially end up paying fines, paying damages, and spending time in jail. Remember that only a person's consent gives you the right to engage in sexual interaction. Even if someone has agreed to be sexually involved with you, remember that the person has the right to withdraw consent at any time. Keep in mind that consent can only be given by a person who has full control of his or her mental capacities.