Information for Teens
Sexual Harassment
Flirting between people is common and healthy. But, some people have trouble
knowing the difference between respectful behavior and unwanted attention.
Sexual harassment is any unwanted physical or verbal advance that is sexual
in nature. It can leave the recipient feeling demeaned and threatened.
Approximately 80% of teens experience sexual harassment. If this happens to
you, or someone you know, you can report this to a trusted authority figure.
Statutory rape
Dating is a healthy part of being a teenager, but things can get complicated
when age differences come into play. In Pennsylvania, sexual activity
between someone under 16 years old and someone four or more years older is
statutory rape. A healthy relationship requires a balance of power. The
offender could be someone you are dating, an acquaintance, an authority
figure, etc.
If your friend is sexually assaulted
Believe them. Listen to them. Let them know it wasn’t their fault. Let them
decide who to tell and what to do. They may need medical attention. Even if
they can’t see any injuries, they could still be injured internally. In
order for the nurse to collect evidence, the victim should not eat/drink,
shower, urinate, douche or change clothes before going to the emergency
room. An advocate from VOICe is available to go with the victim 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week.
When the guy is the victim
Yes, guys are raped and sexually assaulted. No, it doesn’t mean they’re gay,
weak or less of a man. It’s NEVER the victim’s fault. Sexual violence has
nothing to do with sexual orientation. Just because a guy is assaulted by
another guy, it doesn’t mean he’s gay—no matter how the victim’s body
reacted during the attack. One out of every six guys is sexually assaulted
by the age of 18.
You can anonymously access our 24-hour toll-free hotline at 1-800-400-8551. If you are interested in scheduling an individual appointment at one of our locations or at your school, please call and ask for Scotty or Heidi. It is important that you know that all VOICe services are free and confidential.
