Expert speaks on sexual, domestic violence

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Derek VanHorn
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  One in every four women in the military has been raped during her service. The number one reason women visit the emergency room is because of domestic violence.

These alarming statistics were provided by Dr. John D. Foubert, an associate professor at Oklahoma State University and nationally-recognized sexual assault researcher, who came to speak to the Grand Forks base community at the request of the Family Advocacy Program and Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office.

"In the military, you hear terms like 'squadron cohesiveness' and 'mission readiness,'" said Foubert, who lead three separate hour-long sessions throughout the day; two for males and one for females. "Things like trauma, associated with domestic and sexual assault, undermine that cohesiveness and readiness."

Foubert emphatically added to "not shame ourselves to death," but that it is important to "step in and obliterate these statistics."

Each group was shown a video sharing a real-life story from individuals who have experienced trauma, and were then put through simulated scenarios to determine how they would react to different adverse situations.

The presentation came as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which is recognized nationally through the month of October.

Foubert also praised the programs and efforts that the military has implemented to prevent these issues.

"We know that in our society the military leads the way," Foubert said. "Right now, the military is leading the way in the sexual and domestic violence movement."

Foubert has testified before Congress on the prevention of rape in the military, and worked with the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He's also implemented programs at colleges and universities nationwide, as well as authoring eight books.

"I take every chance I get to come and speak with military members because I know you're going to lead the way because you step up and step in to make a difference," he said.