Police Department

Rape Aggression Defense Systems

Rape Aggression Defense Systems is a program of realistic,  self defense tactics and techniques. The RAD System is a  comprehensive course for women that begins with awareness,  prevention, risk reduction and avoidance while progressing on  to the basics of hands-on defensive training.  RAD is NOT a martial arts program. The program is designed
primarily for women and is suitable for all ages and abilities.

The courses at Western Connecticut State University are free and are taught by certified RAD Instructors that provide each student with a workbook/reference manual. This manual outlines the entire physical defense program for reference and continuous growth. The RAD System of physical defense is currently taught at more than 250 colleges and universities in the United States and Canada and is the largest women’s physical defense program of its kind in the country. The growing, widespread acceptance of this system is primarily due to the ease, simplicity and effectiveness of our tactics, our solid research and unique teaching methodology. The Rape Aggression Defense System is dedicated to teaching women defensive concepts and techniques against various types of assault by utilizing easy, effective and proven self-defense/martial arts tactics. Our system of realistic defense will provide women with knowledge to make an educated decision about resistance. We operate on the premise that a spontaneous violent attack will stimulate a natural desire to resist on the part of the victim. We educate women about “The Fight or Flight Syndrome,” while showing them that enhancing their option of physical defense is not only prudent, but necessary if natural resistance is effective.

 

Typical Questions asked about the R.A.D. Class

How long is the R.A.D. class?

The typical RAD class is 16 hours long. This is broken up into two eight hour segments.

 

How many people are in each class?

While there is no set amount of students for each class, we do limit class size to ensure that each participant feels comfortable and is able to receive proper instruction.

 

What time is the class?

Class times will be varied due to demand and actual participation.

Do I have to go to both classes?

Participation in both class segments is necessary to “complete” the class and receive your pass to any future R.A.D. classes held throughout the United States, free of charge.

Do I really get to hit someone in a suit?

Yes. You will get the chance to practice what is taught to you in previous classes, on one of the instructors who will be dressed up in a well padded protective suit. This is called simulation training and is a valuable part of the class as it gives the student a chance to see how their newly learned skills work in real life situations. This part of the class is optional, but is encouraged.

 

Do I need to be an athlete to participate?

Not at all. The class is designed so that the average person can take it. We instruct people to go at their own pace and we never ask you to do something you can’t do, or do not want to do.

 

When can I sign up for this class?

Watch for information about class offerings posted on bulletin boards located throughout the campus.

 

Your R.A.D. Instructors

Officer Monica Allen joined the WCSU Police Dept. as a Building and Grounds Patrol Officer in 1997. She became a RAD instructor in August 2005. Monica is also a telecommunications operator. Prior to joining WCSU Monica was a sexual assault counselor with the Danbury Women’s Center from 1989-1998. Monica takes a proactive approach and looks forward to educating the community about self protection.

University Police offers RAD training to female students, faculty and staff free of charge. For more information, to register for the class or to schedule a special class for your group, organization, sorority or department/school, contact our RAD instructors at allenME@wcsu.edu |  or call 203-837-9300.