Safety & Emergency Management   

Sexual violence is a serious public, personal, and familial enigma that impacts health, opportunity, relationships, and overall well-being. This course seeks to promote a better understanding of the field of sexual violence, its causes, impact, consequences, risks, protective factors, and prevention. Sexual violence can occur in person, online, or through technology. It crosses all social boundaries, affects people of every age, gender, abilities, sexual orientation, and cultural background. It knows no bounds and anyone can experience or perpetuate sexual violence. Through the lens of an anti-oppressive framework and evidence-based approach, students will gain an understanding of the laws, equity issues, trauma, and supportive interventions for survivors. Additionally, students will explore the risk factors that may contribute to sexually harmful behaviour, current preventive measures, and treatment outcomes for those who sexually harm. No Textbook Required.

Students learn theory and practical skills essential to assist women who are victims of violence. Students examine historical and social perspectives of violence against women; issues of power and authority within a feminist theoretical framework; different forms of violence against women, such as sexual violence and femicide; and women's varied experiences of violence (as impacted by race, class, sexual orientation, ability and age). Through a combination of case studies, literature and media analysis, group activities and discussion, practical demonstrations, role plays, and community research, students learn how to support women who are victims of violence, to assess women for risk of violence, to recommend personal safety plans, and to best advocate for appropriate and needed services. No Textbook Required.