Dangers of the College Lifestyle
Avoiding Common Mistakes and Having a Safe College Experience
Mar 19, 2007
For many young adults, going to college is the first time they will leave home and be responsible for themselves. Inexperience and the desire for independence can be a dangerous combination for young men and women suddenly finding no authority figure to set boundaries. In an environment alive with potential, it is easy to fall victim to the dangers of the college lifestyle.
Students coming to college just out of high school are not able to drink alcohol legally, but that does not stop the party. The college party culture encourages excessive drinking and for young adults who have little experience with alcohol, many go beyond their limit. According to a report released by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University (CASA 2007), college students are binge drinking and abusing drugs with greater frequency. The proportion of students who drink and abuse alcohol has not changed over the years, but students drink more often and to greater excess. Alcohol abuse leaves students vulnerable to criminal victimization, alcohol poisoning, injury, and contributes to sexual assault and rape.
Alcohol may be a major contributor to criminal victimization, but inexperience leads students to increase their likelihood of victimization in other ways. College campuses located near major urban areas are more prone to property and violent crime. Unlocked doors to dorm rooms and vehicles give thieves easy access and valuable property left in plain view is also easy picking. Students are often not aware of what is going on around them and distraction by loud music on earphones and phone calls put them at risk of being robbed. Walking in well-lit areas and with friends, scanning the area, and walking with confidence make criminals less likely to view a student as an easy target. Students should never leave property unattended and should have important information like account and serial numbers easily accessible in case something is stolen.
A new social scene and close contact with peers provides many opportunities for new friendships and love interests. Living conditions and the party culture encourage sexual interaction, but inexperience and alcohol again combine with tragic consequences. Young women and men often lack the confidence and self-awareness that comes with experience. Miscommunication and social pressure can lead to coercion and unwanted sexual contact. Alcohol dulls the senses and the ability to make decisions. Women often have not learned to speak up for themselves and have unhealthy perceptions of how dating should be. Pressure from trusted male friends, even when alcohol or violence is involved, often is not interpreted as rape. Young men are often taught that they have to be persistent to get sex, and cultures of sexual coercion and violence reinforce that. Using alcohol to “score” is an acceptable practice in some peer groups.
Simple steps to protect themselves and their property can often prevent victimization.
* Take it slow when drinking - know your own limits and don’t be pressured to drink more
* Always go out with a trusted group of friends and designate a sober driver to make sure everyone gets home
* Walk in well lit areas and with friends; be aware of your surroundings, have your keys out, and walk with your head up
* Always secure your home and property; have important numbers written down and report theft to police immediately
* Never carry your social security card or passport in your wallet or purse
* Use your instinct - if you feel uncomfortable at a party, leave
* Know how to say no and be clear about what you want with dates
* Take a self-defense course to build your skills and confidence
