Campus Violence
Violence occurs on all college campuses. On average, male college students are twice as likely to be victims of all types of violence as female students (American College Health Association, 2005).
What is violence?
The World Health Organization defines violence as “the intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community that either results in or has a high likelihood of resulting in injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment or deprivation.” Campus violence includes but is not limited to hazing, threats, harassment, vandalism, robbery, aggravated assault, forcible rape, sexual assault, suicide, manslaughter, and homicide.
Are you contributing to the cycle of violence?
Alcohol and drug use contributes to campus violence. Drugs and alcohol increase the likelihood of an individual to be involved in a crime as either the perpetrator or the victim. About 4 in 10 violent crimes against college students were committed by offenders who were perceived by victims to be using drugs or alcohol (ACHA, 2005). About 25% of college student victims of violence and 31% of non-student victims were injured during the victimization (ACHA, 2005).
Students who drink excessively and/or abuse drugs have higher rates of assaults, arrests, and vandalism. Following heavy drinking and/or drug use, students may find that their inhibitions decrease, they become aggressive and/or violent, and they are less able to resolve conflict because their judgment is impaired.
How can you help?
We all can assume responsibility to ensure that our campus is safe and violence-free. Only 25% of all campus crimes are reported to authorities (ACHA, 2005) . Many students have difficulty reporting their own victimization and/or interpersonal violence because they fear retaliation. You can help by providing support to victims, promoting safety, and reporting crimes or suspected crimes to Washington University Police Department (WUPD). If you live in WU housing, contact your residential advisor (RA) or your residential college director (RCD). If you live off campus, contact your local police department.
Where can you go for help?
Campus Experts
- Student Health Services, Habif Health and Wellness Center , 314.935.6666. Call to schedule an appointment with a counselor to talk about your experience with campus violence.
- Washington University Police Department, 314.935.5555. Call to talk with a law enforcement officer about your experience with campus violence, to report a crime or possible crime, or to request an escort to your residence hall/apartment or to your car.
On-Line Resources
- Carr, J. L. (2005, February). American College Health Association campus violence white paper. Baltimore , MD : American College Health Association.
- Report a crime on campus anonymously
- Go Ask Alice
- National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Center
How can I learn more?
Professional
- Health Promotion Services provides brochures and other resources. To request a program, contact Melissa Ruwitch at 314.935.7139
Peer
- Uncle Joe’s Peer Counseling and Resource Center , 24 hour hotline, 314.935.5099. If you wish to speak to someone in person, visit the Uncle Joe’s office in the basement of Gregg Hall, 10pm-1am nightly.
