On their first date, college students Joe and Barbara attend a movie before going to the local student hangout for a few beers. When Joe takes Barbara back to her apartment, he becomes affectionate as they sit on the couch. Soon, Joe's affection morphs into passion; he tries to remove Barbara's clothing. Somewhat tipsy from the alcohol, Barbara remains passive. But when Joe forces her down on the couch, Barbara tells him to stop. Joe ignores her and soon has his way with her.

Forty years ago, many people may have joked that Joe "hit a home run." Fortunately we no longer treat these situations so lightly. Most people today would say that Joe raped Barbara, and because Barbara and Joe know each other, she was a victim of "date rape." And it's no laughing matter.

According to the Justice Department, 96% of date rapes involve male perpetrators and female victims. Date rape is a crime very similar to rape, even though it may not be as violent. Barbara had the right to say "no" and she did. The fact that she had been drinking, or that she didn't strongly assert herself, makes no difference. She still said "no."

'No' Means 'NO!'
For your child to stop date rape from happening, tell her to say "no." Most often it's as simple as that. State it clearly and firmly and don't allow any room for negotiation.
Don't remain silent. Some men interpret silence as a "yes." If a date tries to make sexual advances that your child is not comfortable with, say "no" and say it loud.

Drugs and Alcohol
Recent years have witnessed a great influx of "date rape drugs" on college campuses. Substances such as GHB are placed in drinks of unwary females. The combination of the drug and alcohol creates a potent cocktail that leaves women unconscious and vulnerable. But one thing to remember, the base ingredient of that cocktail -- alcohol -- remains the most common date-rape drug. So if your child drinks, teach her how to be careful when she drinks. Young women, especially new college students, typically aren't aware just how much alcohol can impair judgment and their ability to stay in control. Teach your child to stay away from gatherings where everyone is drinking heavily.

Also teach your child to be careful what she drinks. An open punch bowl or a keg could be spiked.

Background Information

There is a growing concern on campuses across the country due to the presence of predator drugs. This article will focus on three drugs threatening personal safety:

• Rohypnol (Roofies, Rope, Ruffies, R2, Ruffles, Roche, Forget-pill)
• Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate (GHB, Liquid Extacy, Liquid X, Scoop, Easy Lay)
• Ketamine Hydrochloride ('K', Special K, Vitamin K, Ket)

Rohypnol

It is a potent tranquilizer which produces a sedative effect, amnesia, muscle relaxation, and slowing of psychomotor response. The pill is distributed in 0.5,1.0 to 2.0 milligram form (Restrictions have been placed on the 2.0 mg form). It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless and dissolves without leaving any traces. It takes effect approximately 10 - 20 minutes after ingestion. Rohypnol can be added to any liquid (effect lasting 2-8 hours) but when added to alcohol it produces disinhibition and amnesia (effect lasting 8 - 24 hours). Rohypnol can be detected in the blood for 24 hours and in the urine for 48 hours. Some individuals use Rohypnol as an alcohol extender for a rapid and dramatic high. This is something to watch for in social settings if individuals seem extremely intoxicated after consuming only a small amount of alcohol. Hoffman-La Roche is working on changing the formula so trace particles or a color would appear when Rohypnol is dissolved.

Street Names: Roofies, Rope, Ruffies, R2, Ruffles, Roche, Forget-pill.

GHB

It is an odorless, colorless, liquid depressant with anesthetic qualities. It is also used as an amino acid by bodybuilders. GHB is usually distributed as a sodium salt in powder or tablet form commonly dissolved in water. This drug gives a feeling of relaxation, tranquillity, sensuality, and loss off inhibitions (especially for women). The drug takes effect 10 - 15 minutes after ingestion and lasts 2 - 3 hours unless combined with alcohol, where effect may last 20 - 30 hours. Large doses can induce sudden sleep within 5 - 10 minutes.

Street Names: Liquid Extacy, Liquid X, Scoop, Easy Lay.

Ketamine

It is a new drug that has been added to the predator drug category. It is a powerful anesthetic used as an animal tranquilizer. It is available in liquid, powder or pill form. Ketamine causes hallucinations, amnesia and dissociation (a feeling where the mind seems separated from the body) making it attractive for a potential date rapist.

Street Names: 'K', Special K, Vitamin K, Ket.

Here are some other tips for your child to help her avoid date rape:

At Parties: There's safety in numbers. Go to parties with a friend, roommate or, best of all, a group of people. If you suspect you have been drugged, leave immediately and then go to the nearest hospital or emergency room to get tested. The results can later be used as evidence. Don't leave a party with someone you just met.

On Dates: Don't let anyone force you to do anything you don't want to. If a guy tries to push you to get intimate, discuss your feelings and clearly assert your boundaries. On first dates, meet in public places and stay there. If your date gets drunk, go home.

Gut Feelings: Trust your instincts. If something about the date or party is making you uneasy, then something's probably wrong. Get yourself someplace else, someplace safer.

Personal Protection: Consider enrolling in a self-defense class. You'll never know when you need the skills, and just knowing you have them will make you feel empowered.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF:

• Don't accept drinks that you did not open yourself.
• Don't exchange or share drinks with anyone.
• Don't drink anything out of a punch bowl.
• Monitor the behavior of friends who seem more intoxicated than the amount of alcohol would warrant.
• Never consume a drink that you have not mixed yourself, or have not watched someone else prepare.
• Never accept a drink from someone you don't know and trust.
• If you hear someone "kidding" about date rape drugs, pay attention. That should be a warning to leave that party or individual

-- Dan Harvey & Safety Editor

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