Counselling Services
What is Sexual and Gender-Based Violence?
Sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) encompasses any act of violence directed at an individual based on their sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or gender expression. This can include:
Sexual and gender-based violence can impact individuals of any age, gender, or background, often leading to severe physical, emotional, and psychological consequences for survivors. Addressing SGBV and working together on establishing preventative measures is crucial for creating safe and inclusive environments for everyone.
Watch the video below for a brief overview of sexual and gender-based violence.
As mentioned, the most common types of SGBV include sexual, physical, verbal, and psychological violence. However, there are other forms of SGBV that should also be recognized. Let's explore some additional types that fall under the umbrella:
These examples represent just a few of the diverse forms of SGBV that individuals may experience. Recognizing and understanding these different types is crucial for providing comprehensive support to survivors and working towards preventing it in all its forms.
Understanding the factors that can lead to SGBV is a crucial step in learning how to prevent it. By closely examining some common causes, we can develop strategies to create safer environments and reduce incidents of SGBV.
Understanding these reasons for SGBV is important in fighting against it. These examples are just a few of the many things that can lead to SGBV. Knowing various ways SGBV can happen and understanding why it happens helps us give better support to survivors and work towards reducing violence in our communities.
Educate Yourself Beyond the Surface: Take advantage of educational opportunities such as trainings, events and activities, and resources to deepen your understanding of SGBV, its root causes, and effective prevention strategies.
Be a Part of Normalizing Safe and Healthy Discussions about SGBV: Engage in meaningful discussions about SGBV and related subjects like consent. By doing so, you can break down stigmas and raise awareness, leading to constructive and open dialogue which promotes understanding, support, and empowerment.
Respect Other People's Rights to Their Personal Choices: Respect individuals' autonomy and right to make their own decisions regarding their bodies, relationships, and lifestyles. Avoid imposing your beliefs or judgments on others and strive to create an environment of mutual respect and acceptance.
Practice Active Listening and Empathy: Be attentive and empathetic if someone shares their experience with SGBV. Validate their feelings, offer support, and refrain from passing judgment. Sometimes, simply being there to listen can make all the difference and offer exactly what that person needs.
Know How to Help: Be educated on practical ways to intervene and support survivors of SGBV. For example:
Learn How to Be an Intervening Bystander: Take proactive steps to intervene safely and effectively if you witness a potentially harmful situation. This could include stepping in directly if it's safe to do so, contacting authorities for assistance, and more.
Educate Yourself on Support Services for SGBV: Get to know the support services offered on campus and in the community for survivors of SGBV. This includes counselling services, crisis hotlines, medical resources, and more. Being informed about these resources or knowing where to find them can empower you to offer valuable support and guidance to survivors seeking assistance.
By taking these proactive steps, you can contribute to creating a campus community that is safe, supportive, and free from sexual and gender-based violence. Your efforts can make a meaningful difference in reducing and preventing SGBV, as well as helping survivors in their journey toward healing and justice.
Highlighted Student Supports and Resources
On Campus
Off Campus
For a comprehensive list of resources available at RDP campus and within the surrounding community, please access the PDF document by clicking on the following link: On and Off Campus Supports and Resources.
Counselling Services Hours
Monday-Friday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Closed Saturday, Sunday,
and all Statutory Holidays
Red Deer Polytechnic recognizes that our campus is situated on Treaty 7 land, the traditional territory of the Blackfoot, Tsuu T’ina and Stoney Nakoda peoples, and that the central Alberta region we serve falls under Treaty 6, traditional Métis, Cree and Saulteaux territory. We honour the First Peoples who have lived here since time immemorial, and we give thanks for the land where RDP sits. This is where we will strive to honour and transform our relationships with one another.