If you were physically or sexually assaulted by someone, whether they be a stranger or somebody you know, would you know how to defend yourself and escape harm?

Most people asked these questions would most likely answer yes, but statistics reveal a much different finding.

According to information provided by RAINN, the self-proclaimed largest anti-sexual assault organization in the nation, one in six women and one in 33 men will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime.

RAINN statistics also indicate that in 2006, there were 272,350 victims of sexual assault, which means that every two minutes someone in the United States is sexually assaulted.

What's even more unsettling is that RAINN claims that approximately 60 percent of sexual assaults that occur are not even reported to the police and that, out of the number of assaults that are disclosed, 73 percent of victims knew their assailants.

In date rape, for example, it's not always a stranger jumping out of the shadows to attack.

Because of these disturbing truths, there will be a Dating Violence and Perpetrator Profiling training in Dunklin County on Monday, June 9 at Slicer Street Church of Christ.

From 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., guests will have the opportunity to increase their knowledge regarding a number of violence-prevention related issues including:

* Current data pertaining to domestic violence and its link to other violent behaviors.

* Three stages of the violence cycle.

* Why it is difficult for a victim to leave the abuser.

* Family dynamics.

* How to intervene and local resources.

* Behavioral characteristics of rapists.

* Precautions to avoid rape.

* What to do if confronted by a rapist.

* What to do when someone is being raped.

* Profiles and types of rapists.

The training is open to all and requires a registration fee of $10 to attend.

Three contact hours will be awarded following completion of the training program for those who will benefit from the incentive.

The event is sponsored by Family Counseling Center, Inc. of Kennett.

For more information or to register for the event contact Jessica Howard at (573) 888-5925 ext. 215.