Tackling Sexual Misconduct, Harassment and Violence at Universities Course

Course Learning Objectives

This workshop explores some of the myths and facts around all forms of sexual violence. It is designed to raise awareness of the issues faced by victims/survivors of sexual violence with a view to improving the responses they receive from universities.

Be able to define sexual violence

• know the types of behaviours and activities that are included in this definition;
• be able to differentiate between consensual and non-consensual sexual activities in terms of emotions, physical reactions and relationship context.

Understand the possible impacts of sexual violence on the victim/survivor and their friends/family/partner

• be aware of the implications of sexual violence being experienced as trauma;
• understand what coping strategies a victim/survivor might use to cope with post-trauma responses;
• be able to make the links between the trauma of sexual violence and someone’s behaviour at work or school;
• recognise how this trauma might affect someone’s family/personal life in a range of ways;
• be aware of the issues victims/survivors face within the criminal justice process.

Feel confident to challenge commonly held myths around sexual violence and sexual abuse

• identify victim blaming myths and their impact on society;
• identify myths around who perpetrates sexual violence and their impact on society;
• recognise the links between these myths and the difficulties within the criminal justice process.

Understand how to provide an effective response to a disclosure of sexual violence

• understand the victim/survivor’s perspective in terms of what they might need or want;
• recognise how to balance organisational safeguarding concerns with individual rights.

Know what relevant services are available locally

• be able to signpost someone to appropriate support;
• be able to make a referral to a specialist support service where appropriate.