High School Program Safe Touch Material for this presentation was attained from West County Psychological Associates© Powerpoint presentation designed by: Andrea Witt, Coordinator of TrainingSafe Environment Program

Many teens dont think they are at risk. However, 46% of all proven child sexual abuse are toward teens. Adolescents are more often mistreated by friends or relatives than strangers. Introduction

Boundaries are personal rules. Boundaries are limits. Part 1: Boundaries

1. Physical: about our bodies and physical touch ( a hug or a slap on the back may be appropriate to some, not all) Part 1: Boundaries

2. Emotional: Being close to a person and how much personal information we choose to give them Part 1: Boundaries

3. Behavioral: What we are willing to do or not do in a given situation (come home on time, or break curfew and risk consequences) Part 1: Boundaries

1. Whats an example of a Physical Boundary? 2. Emotional Boundary? 3. Behavioral Boundary? 4. When someone tries to cross your boundaries, how do you feel? How does your body react when you are angry, scared or upset by another person's behavior? Part 1: Boundaries DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

One serious personal boundary involves the private parts of our bodies. Adolescents face several serious concerns with this issue. 1. Adults who try to cross boundaries with teenagers 2. Technology 3. Friends and Dating Partners Part 2: Safe Touch Issues for Adolescents

1. Adults who try to cross boundaries with teenagers: It is ok to say no to an adult who tries to be inappropriate with you physically or behaviorally. No adult ever has the right to touch your private body parts or pressure inappropriate behavior. When something doesnt seem right, trust your instinct. Key Points Part 2: Safe Touch Issues for Adolescents

2. Technology: Todays culture creates pressure to make poor decisions while online. To protect your personal safety, show safe and reasonable judgement while online. Dont post inappropriate photos of yourself or others Dont post your location Dont post personal experiences inappropriately Dont meet anyone in real life you met online Part 2: Safe Touch Issues for Adolescents Key Points

3. Friends and Dating Partners: It is important to protect yourself from dating partners who may not respect your boundaries. Stay sober Dont go out alone or to secluded areas Be mindful of your location When youre at a party, keep your beverage with you to avoid being drugged. If you set it down and didnt watch itget a new drink. Part 2: Safe Touch Issues for Adolescents Key Points

Remember: Even a person who made a mistake in judgement doesnt deserve to be mistreated. You always have the right to say no and never have to go along with anyone who is pressuring you to cross your boundaries. This is true, even if you crossed those boundaries before. 1. Who can remember one or more of the tips for online personal safety? 2. Who can remember one or more of the tips for dating safety? Part 2: Safe Touch Issues for Adolescents DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Whether a person crosses a boundary online or in person, instincts tell you its wrongtrust your instincts. If someone touches you inappropriately or does something else that tells your gut instinct it isnt right: 1. Say NO or STOP with eye contact and a firm voice. 2. Get away from person immediately. 3. Tell an adult what happened. Even tell if you were told to keep it secret. Part 3: Learning to Say No when you get that uncomfortable feeling Key Points

A safe adult may not be the same person for everyone. A safe adult may be: Parent Teacher Counselor Relative Anyone who cares about you and will listen to you It is important to tell a safe adult, no matter the age or gender of the person who crossed your boundaries. Part 3: Learning to Say No when you get that uncomfortable feeling Key Points

Statistically, over 90% of young people who are sexually mistreated knew the person who mistreated them. Some adolescents have trouble telling for a variety of reasons. Young people experience emotional/physical effects from abuse. By telling, you may save another person from experiencing the same difficult situation. Part 3: Learning to Say No when you get that uncomfortable feeling Key Points

We talked about 3 steps you should take if your instinct tells you that you are at risk. What are those steps? Part 3: Learning to Say No when you get that uncomfortable feeling DISCUSSION QUESTION

Conclusion While this topic isnt easy, its important Remember to always trust your instinct that something isnt right about a situation Always tell an adult you trust Key points from the handout

Rules to help teens stay safe: Handout for studentsSafe Touch program Always use the Buddy Systemnever go places alone. Always let someone know where you are going and with whom you are going. Never get into a car with strangers. Be suspicious of adults who seem too friendly or make you feel uncomfortable. No adult should ever touch you inappropriately. Be safe when onlinedont give out personal information or be inappropriate. Only talk to people you know in real life online. Never keep secrets. Develop a family password for emergencies. Dont go with adults unless they know the password. TRUST YOUR FEELINGS!!! Key Points

Thank you for attending Open the door to safety. Awareness is the key! Material for this presentation was attained from West County Psychological Associates© Powerpoint presentation designed by: Andrea Witt, Coordinator of TrainingSafe Environment Program