When you think of yourself, do you see yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? Do you think being one or the other impacts the people with whom you associate on a daily basis and/or form romantic relationships?

How much time should you spend with your significant other? When does it become “too much” to the point of being controlling or unhealthy? I'd love to hear your thoughts below!

How important are trust and communication? Can a relationship function without them, or function after either has been broken? What are your thoughts?

What do you think a healthy relationship looks like? Please share some of the characteristics you think a relationship needs to be healthy, as well as some things you think make a relationship unhealthy.

I've recently been hanging out with some international friends, and needless to say I love them! They are absolutely amazing people, and their outlook on life is so refreshing! I’ve come to notice how the men, especially from Britain, are so much more respectful to women. They are also more responsible when it comes to drinking due to the peer influences they have. The first night, I had only known them an hour and four of them asked me if I had a safe ride home. They told me if I didn't, and didn't have the cash for a cab, they would gladly pay for it and I could pay them back the next time I saw them… How nice is that? Has anyone else been on the receiving end of kindness due to positive peer models?

Upon having coffee with a female friend today, she told me something that shocked me. At a bar the night before, she was touched inappropriately by a male she did not know. When she went to the bouncer to have him removed due to her discomfort with the situation, the bouncer informed her, “That’s what you asked for by coming in here, there is nothing I can do to help you.” I was so appalled at this response.  Have any of you been subjected to the same treatment by bouncers or another employee in an establishment? If so, how did you handle the situation? Did you seek help from a higher authority or simply leave the establishment without any action being taken?

Quick thought of the day as we begin 2013: Everyone has intentions for “going out” and “partying” whether it is to meet someone new, hang out with friends, or to just relax and de-stress.

I’m curious to know what your reasons are for going out.  Does it vary by day, month, age, occasion etc.? Post below and let me know your thoughts!

Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence are not topics many individuals feel comfortable discussing. They are topics that people often make jokes about, ignore, keep hidden, or even look over entirely. Many do not even acknowledge that these topics exist strictly because they have never experienced them or had someone they know experience them. Having those factors in place unfortunately makes these topics invisible. Fear is a very predominate emotion, and most individuals feel that if these topics are discussed then that takes away their feeling of “invincibility.” The truth is no one is invincible to anything. Speaking from experience, and the fact that my rape occurred when I was 18, furthers my belief that there is power in knowledge as well as in being proactive.

This blog is also a way to spread the word of prevention, show others the positives of getting involved, as well as providing a safe place for those who need support, have questions, or just want to become better informed. I encourage everyone while reading the blog to keep an open mind, and to feel open to asking (in an appropriate manner) any questions they may have. While I reserve the right to choose to decline questions based on nature and my own comfort level, I will do my best to answer what I can to the best of my ability. Here are a few things to keep in mind when posting any feedback:

1. I state now that this blog is strictly my thoughts and opinions. In no way shape or form is anyone else responsible for what is posted.

2. While constructive criticism, positive advice/comments, and any other positive educational information is very much welcomed- anything of an abusive nature will not be tolerated. I reserve the right to delete or block anyone who chooses to take such action.

3. I encourage you to read over your comments, posts, etc. before submitting them to make sure they follow the appropriate guidelines. If you have any questions on posting or what would be appropriate to post, please direct all inquiries to

preventionquestions@gmail.com. Also, this email can be used by those who have questions or comments they are not comfortable making on the blog.

4. If you find while reading anything listed in this blog that you realize you need help, or even wish to seek resources for a family member, friend, etc., I encourage you to visit www.SCCADVASA.org or call the office at

803-256-2900 for more information on getting help.

This blog is not to be seen as a form of medical advice; it is simply an informative blog of thoughts and opinions.