Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Got questions? We got answers.

When staff at Middle Way go to the schools to talk about healthy relationships and sexual assault, they get lots of questions from the kids in the classes. We decided to take these questions and answer them on the blog so everyone can get the answers. We will be adding new questions every week. If you have a question about healthy relationships or sexual assault...let us know and we will get you an answer.


What are the legal ages for relationships?

Legally you must be at least 16 to give consent to have sex. You are not, by law, allowed to say yes to sex if you are under the age 16.


Is it better to help someone who is abused by telling an authority or to keep it to yourself and help them on your own so that they trust you more?

What is the situation? Depending on the circumstances, the answer to this question can vary. If you are worried about the safety of your friend, or your own safety, it is important to talk to a trusted adult. It is important to keep yourself safe in every situation, and not take on more than you can handle. If a friend has chosen to confide in you, it is essential that you keep that person’s trust and friendship, they have probably told you because they feel that you are safe. You can also always call the Middle Way Crisis line: (812)336-0846; the crisis line is open 24 hours and totally anonymous, and you don’t have to give your name.


Is it hard for people to leave an unhealthy relationship?

Yes. Often times people try to leave an unhealthy or abusive relationship but are drawn back to it for a bunch of different reasons.

Some of the main reasons:

· Fear of being hurt

· Love (sometimes you still love the person. That is totally normal. It happens with a lot of people).

· Afraid to be alone because their relationship has messed up their sense of self; they feel responsible for what is happening (but it is not their fault, it is the fault of the abusive person).

· One person in the relationship provides money, shelter, etc., which gives them control.

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