The social sexual culture at WSU may be quite different than the culture in a foreign country. Here in the U.S. it is not uncommon for males and females to be friends; to share the same dormitories and apartment buildings; to crash on each other’s couches/beds; to socialize without any sexual expectations. But in some foreign countries these actions may be interpreted very differently.

 

Before you go abroad to study in a foreign country it is important that you become familiar with the local customs surrounding male/female relations. When you arrive it is important to observe how the locals interact, how they define “personal boundaries”, how the women/men dress when in public, and what is considered appropriate socializing between genders. The definition and practice of sexual consent varies from country to country. Also, criminal justice systems around the world vary dramatically in their response to crimes of sexual violence.