I think the biggest thing(s) to watch for are usually some of the smallest - ie. otherwise innocuous occurrences that then escalate and get out of hand. A good dose of miscommunication (or lack of communication) usually goes hand in hand. It is also important to educate that even though one or two people may not be intending to represent their entire group in a particular situation, they may be seen as representing the group. Sure, this is not fair - but the flip side of that is that we should always bear ourselves (and by extension, our letters) with dignity and respect. Nobody means for anyone else to get hurt; but when people do get hurt, they look for redress, and it's easiest to point the finger at the group (even though the
individuals are at fault, not the whole group.)
Risk Management is one of the first policies we go over with our candidates. We talk about accountability for one's actions. Commuication is stressed - especially for times when the last thing you'd like to do is talk. Our chapters are required to have a sexual assault-awarness seminar once a year, and we usually have a mini self-defense training seminar (not required, but it's worthwhile).
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equeen
A Lioness has her Pride!
@>--;--
Alpha Sigma Kappa - Women in Technical Studies
[This message has been edited by equeen (edited October 11, 2000).]