Millions of dollars are made weekly from the videos and DVDs of women baring their breasts while on spring break or at Mardi Gras. What's the big deal? All women have breasts of various sizes; you can easily see them on numerous Web sites, in magazines and on late-night TV. Why do we thrill to see a drunken, scantily clad young woman pull up her top? I believe it's because we're all voyeurs to some extent. Seeing others engaging in sexual activity or simply showing parts of their bodies excites us. But there's a deeper truth to this spring break/Mardi Gras phenomenon.
Just knowing that these girls are drunk off their ass and will probably regret this moment tomorrow makes it seem all the more enticing. Admit it, we were all intrigued by the story of the woman who sued because the image of her baring her breasts was obtained without her written consent. We secretly wanted her to lose--she was drunk, she has to pay!
But I wonder what this attitude does to those women out there who do experience sexual violence or violations of privacy because they were drunk in public. Partying is a norm on our campus and on most campuses across the country. Drinking responsibly is not the norm--looking out for your drunken friends is something that I don't hear much about except on last year's episodes of \Dawson's Creek.""
If you're under the influence of alcohol you are much more likely to act out sexually. You're much more likely to NOT listen to your partner or really understand what he or she is saying. You're much more likely to not be able to communicate effectively about your own sexual needs and desires. And one more thing, alcohol not only inhibits your decision-making process, it desensitizes your sexual organs! Why bother? It won't even feel as good!
As this spring break comes around, please remember to take care of each other. Know your limit before you start drinking. Most importantly, remember that the vast majority of cases of sexual violence occur under the influence of alcohol and between people that knew and often felt like they trusted one another.
Take it easy, enjoy the fabulously warm places you visit and enjoy your friends! This advice goes for guys as well as girls--sex can be a great part of all this. Please, take care!
