How to fight back if you're being sexually assaulted.

There is a difference between the amount of force that generally accompanies acquaintance rapes and the amount that occurs in stranger rapes. Stranger rapists are generally more violent. For the date rapist, the act of having sex is how he exerts his control, whereas the stranger rapist is more interested in controlling and gaining power over his victim than in having sex with her. This kind of rapist may resort to violence to exert his power over the woman and physically abuse her along with the actual rape. The following seven maneuvers and combinations of maneuvers may work, but there are no guarantees. Above all, whatever you do, listen to your guidance and commit with all your might to follow through. Remember, your goal is not to hurt him, but to incapacitate him long enough to escape.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Kick him in the shins, slap his face, scratch his face, pull his hair, pull his little finger back to break it, kick him in the groin.

2. Pretend to faint, Urinate, defecate, or vomit on him or on yourself, Run from him.

3. Scream, “Help!” “Police!” “Rape!” or, “Fire!” Most experts believe you will get more response if you yell, “Fire!”

4. Make a loud noise or use a noise device, Step on his foot, especially his instep, with your high heels.

5. Thumb to the eyeball push: When his guard is down, place your hands on each side of his face in a caressing motion. Move your hands toward the corners of his eyes and push your thumbs into the corners of his eyes. He will immediately go into shock, his eyes will pop out of his sockets, and you should then have the opportunity to escape.

6. Testicle jerk: In this maneuver, you pretend to go along with the rape and get yourself into a position where you are close to his penis. Sooner or later, he will expose himself. Once he does, take hold of the testicles and jerk as hard as you can. This will cause him immense pain. He should bend over holding his crotch, which should give you enough time to escape.

7. If all of the above fail or are not possible, appear to cooperate. He is not expecting this and may then drop his guard or his weapon, giving you an opportunity to escape.
   
   The acquaintance rapist is less likely to use excessive force on his victims. The physical maneuvers that most people associate with repelling a rapist will probably be more effective on the date rapist than on the stranger rapist. Whatever is happening, try to remain calm if you can. Breathe deeply. This will reduce the shock and get oxygen to your brain, which allows you to think more clearly. Keep your focus on distracting your attacker long enough for you to have an opportunity to escape. Remember that some maneuvers may cause your attacker to become more violent. Be aware of this and alter your behavior to de-escalate the violence. Your ultimate goal is to escape with your life. You may be beaten, assaulted, rape or violated, but you can heal and recover from all of these traumas, but only if you survive.