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As a woman, you sometimes notice how some people don’t get it. You just don’t approach a woman pumping gas at a station minding her business, especially when its dark. Similarly, you never try to pick up a woman at a gym who’s clearly busy exercising.

And in any occasion, you do not expect an explanation why a woman doesn’t want to talk to you. There’s no ‘why’ and ‘how,’ because every individual has a right to ‘just be’ and to keep to themselves ‘just because.’

Frustratingly, not everyone realizes that. Recently, Redditor Metallicmuffin asked women “What things do men do that frighten you without them even realizing it?” and the thread hit close to home for many people. The stories started rolling in, each one more eyebrow-raising than the one before it, making the thread go viral with 35.6k upvotes and 16.3k comments.

#1

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Standing too close. How do you know if it's too close? I'll back up half a step, DON'T match it.

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One Redditor who goes by the nickname Several-Stable-9051 shared how “wanting to take me somewhere isolated to be just the two of us on the first date” makes her feel very uncomfortable. In a post shared in response to this bread, the woman wrote: “It’s okay if we’ve been hanging out for a while, but not if it’s the first time I see you in person. Whenever this happens I come up with an excuse not to go. I just don’t feel safe since I barely know the other person, but the worst part is when they try so hard to convince me to go with them.”

#2

Demanding justification for every no, and when it's given, arguing about how my reasons aren't valid.

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#3

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Not taking no for an answer. Especially when they pretend to be jokey about it but you can clearly tell they’re kind of pissed…if that makes sense.

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We reached out to Several-Stable-9051 who shared some insights into what men’s behavior makes her and fellow women feel vulnerable, threatened, and uncomfortable. “Being in an isolated place with someone you see for the first time is very risky for your own safety. You can chat with that person and think, from the way that they text you, that they’re the sweetest and kindest soul you’ve ever met. However, in real life, they might unexpectedly turn out to be a dangerous and frightening person.”

#4

Joking about r*pe. Just makes me think you have r*pe on the brain.

I met a couple dudes at a bar who invited me and my friend to a party they were headed to. We were trying to find a polite way to turn them down when one said, "Don't worry, we're not going to r*pe you. Ha, ha!" We turned him down flat, and not kindly (thankfully we were next to the bouncer) and his friend said, "dude! What the f**k is wrong with you?!" My question too.

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#5

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Pushing my wheelchair to "help" me and be a "gentleman". You're literally abducting me - it's no different from my perspective that you picking up an able-bodied woman and running off with her.

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#6

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Going to the bar to get you a drink without you there to watch the bartender pour it. If I don't know you well, I won't accept a drink from your hands... Ever. Straight from the bartender to me.

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This is because social media doesn’t represent reality, Several-Stable-9051 argues. “Very often we hear on the news hundreds of stories about people getting beaten, robbed, kidnapped, raped or even killed by someone they knew online and thought to be trustworthy,” she explained and added that “sadly, the majority of these victims are women.”

#7

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Oh god I had one of these guys, he “opened” the train door for me to get off (it opens automatically) and so I said “thanks”. Apparently he took that as an invitation, because he then followed me through the station trying to talk to me. I was polite but dismissive. He was creeping me out so I stopped to top up my metro card even though I didn’t need to. He stopped and waited for me. I pretended I didn’t see him.

He then followed me out of the station asking me where I lived (I lied) and then asked me if I had a boyfriend (I said yes). He then asked if I had Facebook (I didn’t answer) and then asked me if my boyfriend had my Facebook password?? He then told me “you don’t need to be scared of me, I just want to be friends.”

By this stage I was fully freaked and was texting my boyfriend about it. I didn’t want to go to my bus stop in case he followed me home, so I walked to the most populated street I could find, still ignoring him while he followed me. Eventually I went into a supermarket and thankfully lost him.

I have never spoken to a man on a train or at a station ever again. I don’t even make eye contact.

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#8

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Blocking the doorway - especially during an argument. Ex did that and would make himself bigger (spreading his arms etc) so I couldn’t leave the room.

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#9

I was late getting my driver’s license and hired a professional driving instructor to help me learn to drive. He was a guy about my age and he was openly hitting on me. It was so uncomfortable. It was just us in the car and I was in such a vulnerable position as a novice driver depending on him for support. I didn’t want him to think I was interested but I also was terrified to be rude to him because he was in control. It was a terrible experience and actually set me back several more years from driver training.

Just need to add as well, since there are presumably men here reading to learn what not to do: learn how to notice hesitation. You’ll never understand the intense pressure to be nice, polite, and even feign some form of interest as a method of self-preservation. It is a survival tactic and it works, just about all of us have gotten out of a volatile situation this way. If a woman is avoiding eye contact, seems to hesitate to answer (especially personal questions), or is agreeing with you a lot without attempting to carry the conversation, she is hoping you’ll leave her alone. Interested women make eye contact, share willingly, and try to joke around or otherwise show their personality. If you’re not sure, tell her you’re going to another location in whatever establishment you’re in (“I’m going to grab a drink/go outside for a smoke/go back to my table”) and invite her to join you. If she comes along, green light. If she takes the out and makes an excuse to leave, you have your answer.

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According to Several-Stable-9051, if she goes somewhere isolated with someone she doesn’t know personally, the chances of getting rescued if something happens are very low. Therefore, as a woman, she feels comfortable in public areas, like bars, “where everyone can hear me and come rescue me in case I need help.”

She also shared a couple of other men’s behavior that makes her very uncomfortable and violated, especially when dating. “Speaking from my own experience, something that makes me really uncomfortable is when the other person tries to touch me without my consent, like rubbing their hands on my thighs or putting their hands on my waist and not removing them even though they notice I’m getting really uncomfortable.”

#10

The way a guy talks about a woman he doesn't find attractive is so unbelievably revealing about who they are as a person. I've been able to witness some of these conversations as I lived with a guy who was like this and it both frightened me and saddened me.

Just because someone is not desirable to you, it does not make them less of a human being. They are as deserving of respect as everyone else.

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#11

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Not going away when I have made it abundantly clear that I am not interested.

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#12

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Wanting to take me somewhere isolated to be just the two of us on the first date. It’s okay if we’ve been hanging out for a while, but not if it’s the first time I see you in person. Whenever this happens I come up with an excuse not to go. I just don’t feel safe since I barely know the other person, but the worst part is when they try so hard to convince me to go with them. This makes me feel more and more uncomfortable.

Edit: ooookay I’ve read some of your comments and I think I have to clarify some things. What I intended was that I make up an excuse not to go to THAT specific isolated place, which means that I actually go to dates and propose to go to public places instead. I’ve never ghosted anyone and I’ve tried to tell truth and make the other person understand that I didn’t feel comfortable. Something I’ve been told many times is: “What do you mean by "I don't feel comfortable"? Do you think I'm a crazy psychopath who rapes or kills people? Come on don't say nonsense, let's go, get in the car.” I mean, is this supposed to make me feel safe? By the way they react it seems like I’m offending them, which is clearly not my intention. That’s why I started making up excuses, because they stop insisting only when they know that something bigger is preventing me from going. I’m fully aware of the fact that not everyone has bad intentions, but it’s not something I can understand immediately the first time I hang out with someone. Besides I don’t blame those who are simply clueless. My comment was just sharing a personal experience, not a general attack on men, and you can tell by the fact that I used “they” and “the other person” instead of “he”. Both men and women can experience this kind of things, and I welcome everyone’s story.
For those who commented using not very kind words, please stop trying to make me look like I’m just a paranoid woman who can’t tell the truth. And thanks to those who shared their experiences and opinions under what is one of my first comments here, I really appreciated all these interactions! Stay safe y’all!

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Deborah B
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why would *any* woman meet a man for the first time anywhere *except* a public place with lots of people? It's a basic safety precaution.

Kathryn Baylis
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It’s a safety precaution that has been known and passed on for well over 100 years. I can attest to that because of own family. My mother graduated high school in 1938, and married my father in 1941. When I was 15 and going on my first date, she told me, her youngest child and only daughter, never to accept a date from someone who wants to go anywhere that’s not public, never get in a car with a date you don’t feel comfortable with so always carry taxi or bus fare home. When you’re older and have your license, you drive yourself to and from the date so you’re not dependent on him for anything, plus you can make an excuse and leave any time you want. If you’re walking home and someone is following you too closely, cross the street and head for a crowded area or find a cop. If you can get to a phone, call home if you’re uncomfortable or he has tried something you don’t want, like to kiss you, or block you from leaving, or saying lewd stuff—-she said to remember that you have a father and four older brothers who will come and get you and give the creep a severe “talking to”. This was coming from a woman who herself was told the same stuff by her mother and older sister, back when she was 15 in 1935. Her mother had married her father in 1899, and was told the same things, modified for her time of course, when she started going on dates unchaperoned. Women have ALWAYS had to be careful when dealing with men on dates or at parties or in crowds or other functions men would go to also. Thankfully, it’s no longer some kind of secret or being swept under the rug, which is probably why so many unthinking men are getting so pissy about it, and and claiming they’re being bashed—-and claiming it happens to men too, even though those statistics are tiny in comparison. You’re not being attacked or bashed, guys, we’re letting you know what happens to us, as a way of telling you to step up and help when you see it happening, to stop doing it yourself, and to loudly and publicly call out your friends when you see them doing it too. (Sorry my comment is so lengthy.)

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Macncheeselife
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Her edit makes makes me feel sick. That many people got mad at her on a post for being uncomfortable with isolated spots? She doesn't need to explain herself. No can also just mean no. No from being even slightly unsure still means no.

Alicia GriffonLady
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You have to wonder if many of the comments were one incel with multiple accounts. (Or hope it is since it's common sense not to go some where isolated with a stranger. Who would be offended aside from creepy people?)

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Lousha
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyone commenting negatively about this it THAT guy who is offended and starts to protest that he's not an axe murderer. And even in less creepy situations, like you're working in a shop and someone insisting that you give them something and they will bring the money later, and then getting offended that you take them to be dishonest. Don't be offended. Just accept that if someone doesn't know you, they don't know you. They just don't know if you're a great guy, if you're trustworthy. They don't assume you're a POS, but from their point of view it's just as possible as the opposite. It's not personal. It's reasonable.

Flash Henry
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The fact that this person had to write the edit in the first place is ridiculous. I see that all the time on subreddits that were created SPECIFICALLY FOR WOMEN with women feeling that they need to apologize because some butthurt men got offended.

Bubs623
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This, right here. The OP having to post an edit and explain herself. She's allowed to feel uncomfortable! She's allowed to make excuses or 'ghost' people if she feels at risk. Sheesh

Kate Jones
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Also, asking to meet at his apartment/house on a first date. Sometimes a guy is like 'I want to cook you dinner' or something and it could be completely sweet, but you should never do that. If I don't know you, I'm not going to your place alone. And I don't really want you at mine yet either. Adding to that, there's this ridiculous idea- at least in the US- that you have sex on the third date. So if a guy is asking to come over my place or wants me to come over his on a third date I assume he expects sex and that get's me annoyed. Don't pressure anyone based on that kind of thing because it just proves all you care about is the sex part. Yes sex is important but if I met you a week ago, I kind of want to know you a little bit. If all you're looking for is sex there are plenty of places to get that without strings attached. Don't pretend you're looking for a girlfriend if you aren't.

Sandra Morison
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The right time for sex is when you BOTH FEEL COMFORTABLE, 1st date, 3rd date 6 weeks later 3 months or when you get married it's something you SHOULD discuss . It's not the same for everyone at every stage of life

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L̸1̶z̵
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This edit should not have been necessary... Pretty ironic...

凜린Kat
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Let's stop gaslighting and/or lecturing and/or shaming. Fear is fear. Just listen to her story

Kate Stark
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Gotta love the world we live in where a woman has to justify & defend her choice not to go somewhere *isolated* with someone she barely knows!

Yvette Desmarais
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As soon as a guy starts challenging my safety requirements I'm done with him. Whether he is a psycho or not, he's not an understanding person. Next!

Ingrid Nog
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The fact that she had to explain herself again because people in the comments were getting offended says a lot about why we need to take these precautions already.

James G. Currie
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

First date? Coffee shop at a decent hour with plenty of people around.

ADumpsterFire
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Love the coffee shop date. No long dinner to sit through if you don't vibe, if you do you can do something else afterwards.

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CatWoman312
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Honestly the edit wasn’t necessary. We have a habit of explaining ourselves to men who whine about our resistance. It’s not necessary or required.

George Pagliarulo PAGLIARULO
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No paranoia here, just good common sense. Anyone, man or woman, who does not understand the reasons for a woman to not put herself in an isolated location with, essentially, a stranger, and continue to insist it is ok are at best clueless. At worst, if a man, somewhat emotionally abusive. If a woman, a potential victim. My daughter and granddaughter would never do this on first meeting someone.

Carriann Frye
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The fact that you would have to edit your post to explain yourself is really disturbing.

Nancy Doughty
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyone who expects you to explain/defend your response (either dates or commenters) are idiots and deserve the following, "What part of "no" don't you understand."

NicNor5560
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My mother and I (adult w/children) went on vacation in RD while my husband was in China. We accepted someone's offer to show us around - he has a horse and open carriage for a good price. First he stopped somewhere and wanted money to buy candy for the school children (I have him 1/2 of what he wanted), then he stopped somewhere in the middle of nowhere and there was a table, a fridge and a lean-to. He invited us to get down the carriage and eat a meal. We just looked at each other and both thought how stupid we were. My mother who doesn't speak much French (she didn't want the guy to understand) starts telling me what she imagine what would happen to us if we get down: drugged drinks, place to hide our body, etc. We declined but he kept insisting he needed to rest the horses. We didn't budge. The ride ended not long after that. OMG, we were so scared! I called my husband in China when we came back to our room. Didn't care about the price or the time zone.

Widda
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

OP. Who ever made you feel you had to explain that was a man being a sh*t head. No. Is enough. If someone makes you uncomfortable it is OK to Ghost them. You owe Nothing to these people. N.O.T.H.I.N.G. You in fact owe nothing to no one. And if someone makes you feel creeped out. Trust your feels. Ghost if you feel the need. Explaining why only makes them hide their creepy better so the next person questions themselves more. If we trusted our gut we'd be in less abusive situations. But "not all. Men" Is a phrase designed to make us trust ourselves less. All.men until all. Men are trying to stop it.

Alicia GriffonLady
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think ghosting is a good idea. Explain why they come off as creepy. They might not realize they are doing something wrong. If they argue after you explain, then ghost them, but don't just leave them to simmer in hatred with no clue why. If enough people tell them what the problem is, maybe they'll think about it and stop doing the creepy thing? (Chances are they'll get angry and be an a*****e about it, but you never know.)

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Okkkkk
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Should be absolutely no need to explain/edit. And I 100% agree... after the first couple of times of people not taking "no" or "let's meet in public" then why not change tactics. I'm assuming the folks that negatively commented are the same ones that have zero clue how women feel in these situations. Yes, there are good men out there and they absolutely wouldn't question this either. If they do... run.

Al Connor
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

always meet in a public place, and always tell someone you are going and have a time to text by as well, those used to me my rules when online dating

Dave
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

At first, if it is suggested, and refused and if it is accepted without argument and with understanding. That is not a red flag at first. However, if on the same date, the suggestion comes up again, that is a red flag. If the guy does not take no for an answer and is pushy about getting somewhere to be alone, run for the hills.

S. Mi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One of the things I think people lose track of: it is not every man that hurts women. Hell, it's not even most men. Really most men are fine, many are incredible. But the damage done by those few can take a lifetime to repair.

SmolPlantLady
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's not the point. The point isn't to pat the "good guys" on the back. The point is, there are so many violent men out there, this post has included not only the original poster's experience, but also tons of women replying with their own similar experiences with downright scary, entitled men. If "most men are fine, many are incredible," there wouldn't be THIS many women reporting otherwise. Some women don't even report it, because they don't know if that "potentially incredible man" might find them, and make them pay for it with their life.

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Allyson Brooks
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Okay. The fact that OP had to use more words to explain and justify what she originally said because of the men responding with indignation is a huge indicator of the problem.

Kelli
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I knew what you meant. I was also never ok with a first date picking me up. I preferred to meet them.

Celtic Pirate Queen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I totally get this! What is wrong with you haters? Some guy I'd never met in person (yeah - a friend of a friend. Great friend.) wanted to PICK ME UP AT MY HOUSE, you know like - where my children live? And was obviously pissed when I told him I don't give my address to strangers. I let him rant for a minute or two and then just calmly told him, your reaction tells me everything I need to know about you & I have no desire to meet you in person. Please lose my number. My (ex) friend was really upset because "he's such a great guy" and I had hurt his feelings. Really? That "great guy" was arrested for attempted rape not six months later. Listen to your instincts.

Darcy Marie
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm guilty of this. I was talking to another woman i worked with for a bit but we only ever saw each other at work. I finally asked her out and my dumb a*s asked her to go hiking at a super remote place. I wasn't even thinking about the implications, just that i love that spot so much and it's so beautiful that I want to share it. After she was half joking like "ummm are you taking me to the woods to kill me?" I was like uhhh... How about the zoo instead. She said yes and we had a great time. A few months later she told me she was super scared when i suggested the hike. Me = idiot.

Alana Voeks
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The fact this lady had to clarify anything shows how out of touch the commenters were.

Bethany Tomchick
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used to not do this and I have gotten in some really bad situations. I actually had to run away from a date. He was psychotic, aggressive and terrifying. Most men aren't like this, but some are and we're smaller than you so just let us do some basic things to protect ourselves from that possibility. We'll get to know you, feel safe and then we can go on dates in private.

Ana Garfield
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Trolls won, by forcing you to add such a long edit. You do not need to explain yourself to anyone. Ever. If they say stupid s**t, let them.

Lazy Panda
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Any man whose response to wanting to meet someplace public isn't "oh of course, duh, I should have thought about that" isn't someone I would want to pursue a relationship with. My only problem with the OP is that she decided to make excuses rather than straight up say "I'd rather meet someplace public like [coffeeshop/bar/restaurant/busy park]" to avoid discomfort and spare these guys' feelings. It should be a screening item!

Alleman Jennifer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There is zero reason to meet aman in a remote area unless you know who they are...know know... what they are about and ur cool with it.

Nizumi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Brunch. First dates should always happen over brunch at a restaurant/bistro/greasy spoon/food truck.

Artchangel
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

yikes, I can't believe you had to defend yourself on this, that's a major warning sign from someone!

Gypsy Lee
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That she felt she had to defend herself after telling this story says a lot about the person commenting, & some people are clearly missing the fact they are demonstrating creepy, possessive, insecure, bullying, & abusive behavior. They have missed the point. Entirely. Your ego & entitlement just got in the way.

Sam Tiller
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Even a lot of guys don't feel comfortable with that sort of thing, and the kind of language a person uses really reveal what their true intentions are.

Anne-Marijn Dohmen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

First comment I ever placed on bored panda. Your edit feels like you need to justify any behavior you ever acted on when feeling unsafe. Sweety, there is absolutely no need to and anyone saying any unkind thing about this just hasn’t had this experience. This is what a lot of women go through, a lot! And having the strength to be honest like that just makes you someone I wish I was at a younger age. When it comes to stuff like this, there is just no need to be nice about it anymore. I’ve been nice enough for too many years to too many creeps.

Brian White
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I don't know where a woman's comfortability is, and the first date is a dead ringer, I give public and more private options and let her choose. Rinse repeat until I know where we are.

ADumpsterFire
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The fact op had to edit and explain something that's pretty basic is sad. Like nobody should go to a isolated area with a stranger for a first date. Not sure why that made people upset with her.

C W
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You don't have to explain yourself on this one. Anyone worth your time will respect your decision to meet somewhere public. If they don't, their loss and you get to move on. My husband was one of the first guys who was the one to propose going somewhere public the first few dates to make sure I felt comfortable. No pressure, no guilt. They're our there, and if you feel you have to make up an excuse to not go somewhere isolated because they don't get why it would make you uncomfortable, move right along!

Verified Losr
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am the exact same way, and I'm pretty blunt about the fact that I'm not comfortable. If the first thing out of anyone's mouth (potential girl and guy friends as well) is anything but "oh I understand. We can go *insert public place* or do you have a place in mind?" they are more than likely not going to be talking to me after that.

AnonymousApple
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Dude, when I was in my 20s I met a lot of people online, and when we made plans to meet up in person, I would literallly ask, "Are you going to tie me up in a closet and pour bleach on me?" You can't effing trust anyone.

Alicia GriffonLady
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Better safe than sorry, as the saying goes. I mean, the victims found out in isolated spots don't get there by coincidentally teleporting there.

Mary Elliott
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Never, ever, ever go someplace private on a first date unless you feel 1000% comfortable with it. No excuses necessary. Them insisting you go when you say your not comfortable with it is a huge red flag. Any man who does not respect no, or understand why women prefer to meet strange men in public, is not worth your time, and potentially dangerous. Stay safe. That's way more important than "offending" somebody.

Candace Mccoy
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Never let someone pick you up at your house. Meet them at a crowded place not bar or club. Go to Applebee’s or one of those places even if you hate it. Have what my friends and I call puma colada and appetizers. Which means just have a meaning one drink and couple appetizer. Safer and they can’t expect anything in return going to an expensive dinner. Drink a fruity drink like a pina colada. Or ask for a virgin one. If the guy birches tries to talk you into a real drink that’s a bad sign he’s trying to get you drunk. Just tell him you may have to work tomorrow/you’re on call. I never tell them what I really do for a living either.

Debi Swing
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think our biggest problem is trying to be polite. We're afraid to say something back to a date if we think we're being rude. The manners that I was ingrained with by my Mama are hard to shrug off.

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According to Redditor, boundaries are essential, and every single person must respect them. “Also, if they don’t take no for an answer, that makes me feel not only uncomfortable but absolutely terrified,” she added. “What I want everyone who does that to know is this: if you’re aware of the fact that you’re making the other person uncomfortable with your actions and you keep on behaving like that and do absolutely nothing to improve the situation, then you are a bad person to be absolutely avoided,” the woman said. 

#13

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Years ago I went out with this dude and during snacks and a drink, it was pretty clear we weren't a good match. I politely turned down another round and thanked him. I put my bag over my shoulder and began walking to the bar to pay. Not more than two steps from the table the dude YANKS my purse strap and says

"what no hug?"

Really taken aback, I hugged him and shuffled quickly to pay and get out of there. As I was paying I explained to the waitress whom I knew from another job that the dude was super creepy and asked if I could sneak down the back stairs. She let me go through and I rushed down the backstairs and then outside to my car. Breathing a deep sigh I got out of the parking lot and at the first red light at the corner where the restaurant was....was the creepy dude crossing the street. Without any hint of emotion, he whipped out a pen and wrote my licence plate down on his hand. Never saw him again, that I know of.

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#14

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Sitting right next to me when I don’t know you and there are plenty of other seats available.

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#15

When I was at my thinnest (UK 6) a lot of men I might chat / flirt / go on dates with would talk about how they liked how small I was and they’d love to get their hands on me cos they could imagine how light and limber I would be, that they could lift me up, make shapes with my body, throw me around, have lots of fun essentially use my tiny body for their own gratification etc

They would often laugh and joke around in this manner like I should be so flattered cos, y’know, all every woman wants us a big stwong mayn to take a hold of them and just do whatever the f they want, show us how it’s done, right?!

Disgusting, disturbing and often quite scary. Many men just want to (ab)use a woman like a sex doll and expect to be thanked for it

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She continued: “However, if you really want to change, then learn to respect boundaries, to ask the other person what makes them feel safe and comfortable, to take no for an answer, and to be understanding. Something that you think is trivial might make the other person feel scared for their own life to the extent that they won’t be able to let you know that.” The woman asks men to “pay attention to the other person’s body and act accordingly. It means a lot, especially for women.”

#16

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It "I don't know why you're acting so cautious. If I wanted to kill you, I would have already done it."

Said to me by a friend of a friend I was meeting because it was his first time in a foreign country.

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#17

My stepfather is constantly commenting on how much my daughter (10 yrs old) is growing into a young woman. Once mentioned how pretty she was in her tank top, and it skeeved me out so bad I had her go change. He noticed and said something along the lines of “oh I hope she didn’t do that because of me” Like, yes, dude, she did 😐

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#18

I'm a bisexual woman. Doesn't matter who I'm talking to, whether it's just a guy I'm getting to know or a guy I've been on a couple of dates with, EVERY ONE makes the "hehe we should have a threesome" joke. It's not funny. It's not cute. It's a violation of my boundaries and an immediate red flag. Automatically I'm on edge.

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Several-Stable-9051 also wanted to clarify that even though the question in the thread was addressed to women men can have the same experiences. “That’s why I always used ‘they’ and ‘the other person.’ Under my post, I found comments from men sharing their own experiences, and I want them to know that their stories are as valid as those of women,” she concluded.

#19

This one may be intentional, but it gives me the absolute creeps when men try to squeeze past me and lightly put their hands on me, especially my waist. I hate it. Just say “excuse me.”

Edit: quite a few people have asked clarifying questions, so I’ll give my thoughts on when it’s okay to touch a woman in a crowded area. (1) Try to just go around her another way. (2) If you can’t, say excuse me. (3) If it’s loud or something and that doesn’t work, sometimes touching just can’t be helped. Either just squeeze past if it’s a packed area, or if you have to lay your hands on her, a firm (but not rough) hand on the shoulder or upper back is likely fine. Lightly tickling the lower back or small of the waist is creepy. Usually if you touch a strange man that way, you might be up for an a*s beating. If you wouldn’t willingly touch some big, strange guy that way (mostly looking at you, straight guys), don’t do it to a woman.

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#20

Guy here. Never realized that working alone with no-one else in the store - night or day - can potentially be terrifying. I've opened and closed where I was the only employee in the building and not once have I ever felt in any immediate danger. Some folks I suspected being a bit shady but they never gave me any trouble. Not once did I ever think I could be at significant risk. As a guy, it's just not a thought that ever comes to mind.

I worked for a local business whose owner, 25 years ago, had a man run into his store at around 10am frantically telling him to call the police. Turns out the poor guy went into the adult video store next door and discovered the young female clerk stabbed to death and laying lifeless in a pool of blood on the floor. Details emerged that she was stalked by someone who went to school with her and one day he got fed up with being told "no" and not long after that returned with a knife and killed her. She was lying dead on the floor for at least a half hour before she was discovered... and since adult stores have their windows blocked and doors blocked so no one can see inside, the only way someone could see what happened is they were actually customer who intentionally went inside. Since it was a weekday morning, the store wasn't busy at all.

The case was solved a couple of years ago (after being a nearly 25yo cold case and easily the most high-profile unsolved homicide in our city's history) and I was on shift the day the local news - and cameras - came into my workplace and wanted to speak with my boss. I later learned my boss was the very first person who made the call to 911. He was in the cooler putting an order away and didn't hear the murder take place. My former boss came to Canada from the Middle East about 50 years ago so he's doubt see some s**t over there... and he still ranks this murder as the saddest and most traumatic thing he's personally dealt with.

From day on, he *never* let any staff member work by themselves to close the store again.

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#21

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It When men try to show off their “dominance” over you or anyone really. Like when you mention something to a guy about another guy and he goes “I’ll kill anyone who talks to you” it’s quite frightening really.

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#22

Not understanding that a polite decline isn't an invitation just to try harder, and is just that, declining to spend more time with the guy.

I know men complain all the time about how women must be communicating in some bizarre code they can't be expected to understand, but a lot of women have been conditioned by experience to decline a man's invitations or attentions in the most polite, face-saving way possible.

I don't think there is a woman out there who hasn't had a man get really angry and threatening when they, the woman, was just trying to say "thanks but no thanks" and move on.

I am not just talking about getting picked up in a bar or on the street. I am talking about any man anywhere who decides he wants a woman's full attention, or wants to give his opinion (on her appearance, attitude, lack of smiling, whatever), at that moment.

It happens so often that you just want to get away from this guy, but they aren't really noticing your (to you) obvious expressions of wanting to leave, and if you get more explicit, you really don't know what will happen. If you stay, you also don't know what will happen, because they might think you are "leading him on."

It feels like a no-win situation, and one a man could use as an excuse (either way) to verbally or physically attack you.

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#23

I'm a guy, but I've been told by women that me raising my voice has been very frightening/triggering.

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#24

Someone saying "where's my hug?" or otherwise trying to imply that they are owed physical contact.

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#25

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Asking personal questions that have nothing to do with why you are communicating in the first place. Example: getting my muffler welded and being asked by the welder "where do you live? How long have you lived there? Do you have roommates or is it just you?" And about thirty more personal and invasive questions.

So. F*****g. Uncomfortable.

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#26

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Hovering. Don’t hover behind me. That’s one of the very few things that makes me nervous.

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#27

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It It's not frightening, per se, but it definitely makes me wary because it could lead to situations that *are* frightening...

When talking to a guy, he's super pushy. Like, asking for pics of this and that (and *that*) and even saying no, they're stilly pushy... all that makes me do is not want to meet him. If he's THIS pushy via text/messaging, how pushy is he going to be in person? If he can't take no NOW, what are the odds he can take no in person?

​

I once had a guy DEMAND that I rank my sexual partners. I told him no. I told him "I can't and I won't." Dude flew off the digital handle. I blocked him right then.

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#28

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Pretending we’re deeper friends than we are, being overly familiar and then acting like they have a “right” to you. Had a guy do this in college. When I told him he didn’t get to dictate who I talk to, he spit his drink in my face. I barely knew him!

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#29

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Telling me things they would do to me if I didn't have a husband. Being out somewhere and them not letting me leave, not taking no for an answer, telling me that they drive by my home to see if I'm there.

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#30

"Idk why you're so nervous. It's not like I'm going to rape you... if I wanted to do that there's nothing you could do to stop me anyways"

UH. the thought hadn't crossed my mind until YOU brought it up unprovoked. FOUR TIMES.

Edit[copied from another comment I made further down to give context to the situation]

Hung out with a guy I knew from back in high-school that I hadn't seen in years. He is physically about 4 times my size and was acting a little strange. [Trying to touch me/ invade my personal space even after i had made it clear i wasn't interested in anything more than friendship] I was nervous and shaking like a leaf trying to figure out how to gently extract myself from the situation. What scared me more than anything was him saying things like " idk why you're so nervous.. it's not like I'm going to rape you"

I thought even though he was overly enthusiastic that I would be safe until he brought up how he - wasnt- going to rape me 4 times. Obviously it made me feel like he must have been considering it :/ thank God I got out of that one safely

the-sweetest-heart Report

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#31

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It A guy I’m seeing took me out to a baseball game for our first date. It was nice, I didn’t get any weird vibes from him at all. After the game, he asked if I wanted to go see some of the spots he likes to go walking. I didn’t think much about it until we got there and i realized he was basically taking me to the woods in the dark. He told me to follow him and I’m thinking I’m about to get killed but it turns out he just wanted to show me his favorite place to go on walks and chill because you can see the entire city from there and at night it looks really pretty. He took me to a couple more trails that night and I ended up having a great time and forgot that it’s pitch black outside and I’m with a guy I’ve never gone out with before out in nature. Definitely thought I was going to get killed at first though.

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#32

Call me nicknames like “sweetheart” or “baby girl” when I’ve never met them before.

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#33

Joking about how easy it would be to overpower us. On more than one occasion I’ve had male friends joke about how easy it would be to pick me up or restrain me or another woman. It’s not funny, it’s creepy.

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#34

Please don't talk to or approach a woman pumping gas, especially at night. I'm sure the moon does look amazing but I am not interested right now. Gas stations are creepy enough without having to make small talk with a stranger. This goes for parking lots at night as well.

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#35

Getting angry at other drivers and then driving very aggressively

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#36

Invading my space. I used a massage chair a few weeks ago at the gym, and it’s one of the newer models that will lift you and bring you to a reclined position about three feet off the ground (I’m 5’1 so for some that may not seem too high, but for me it’s pretty elevated feeling. There was this man who walked into the room, kept looking at me, and tapped me to ask me my name and tell me I was “pretty.” I had headphones in, my eyes were shut, and I CLEARLY was not wanting to engage with anyone. Flashed him my engagement ring (my fiancé wasn’t at the gym at the time) and told him my fiancé was coming to join me. Never saw a man book it so hard.

It’s so frustrating that no matter who CLEAR you are trying to make the fact you are a woman who is not interested in talking to people it’s not respected. Until you insinuate a more masculine partner is present.

May have been intentional there, but I feel like a lot of times invasion of space can be unintentional.

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#37

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Pick me up. I'm short and have a slight build. It's not that I'm scared of them trying to prove how strong they are, I'm just terrified of being dropped.

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#38

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Guy who I sometimes see at work, has at least 20 years on me, f*****g pulled my ponytail to "say hi" one time. So shocked that I just smiled awkwardly and didn't say anything. Like what world are you living in that you think that's okay??

Edit: This got kinda big. Some more details -- I was able to talk to him later that day about how that wasn't acceptable and to not do anything like it in the future. He actually took it pretty well and has been fine to work with since. In this case, since there was no escalation, and I know my boss and other coworkers have my back, I didn't feel the need to do anything further. While some people have good intentions and don't know their behavior is out of line--those actions still cause hurt. Personally, as long as the person is able to acknowledge that hurt and do better moving forward, I'm good with them. Malicious predators are a different story. It can be hard to tell the difference in some situations. Y'all be careful out there.

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#39

When I was in the navy 20 years ago a warrant officer asked me to shut the door to his office. After I did he said, “I could have my way with you on that couch right now and no one would believe you. The CO and XO are wrapped around my pinky and I would deny everything.” my mouth dropped and then he cracked up laughing and said he was joking. It scared me because he legit had that power. He was a good ol’ boy.

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#40

First date, didn't really know him. Comes to my apartment to pick me up, invite him in and he proceeds to tell me how he is going to rearrange the furniture when he moves in.

Back in the 70's I always picked up hitch hikers, picked up this guy, he gets in then looks at me and says "you know you should really be careful about who you pick up".

Guy I was living with:"I know you will never leave me because you can't out run a bullet".

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#41

Flirt with me in front of their SO.

99% of the time she's going to get mad at ME, not him. I've had women threaten me and/or my family/job/other stuff because their man tried to get my number or complimented me in front of her.

I don't WANT him, leave me alone!

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#42

when they emphasize that i DONT need to be frightened of them completely unprompted. no easier way of getting me to be on my guard

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#43

Women Share 30 Times Men Came Across As Creeps Without Realizing It Being overly familiar with me, in a situation I cannot leave. I used to ride the bus home from work, and my schedule varied very little. This lead to me getting on the same bus at 10:20 at night, at the same stop every night. A man who rode the bus the same times, the same nights, took this as me wanting to be his friend. He immediately started asking me super personal questions; the highlights: "You must live around here because you always get off the bus after me!" "Who are you texting? I wish I could text you!" "Who do you live with?" "You must work at _________ because you always walk from over there!!!!" This is after me telling him I didn't want to talk, and that I didn't want to go out with him. UGH.

​

Edit: Whomever reported me to redditcares, awesome! I don't need that. I don't appreciate it. The situation I mentioned above is being taken care of by the proper authorities, and has been for the last few months, thankfully.

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#44

Making unsolicited comments on our bodies. In my opinion this is never welcome unless it’s a compliment from a partner, it just makes me scared and want to run.

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#45

Getting my number from someone else and reaching out to start an unsolicited conversation.

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#46

Happend few times: I was working late in small market with no one around and when they come in and ask me if Im not scared to be alone. Well, now I am, thanks.

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#47

Making crude jokes/double entendres if I don’t know you that well.

Even worse when it’s in a professional setting.

All you’re going to do is make me feel uncomfortable.

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#48

Insisting I give them my number and then making sure their call comes through before I leave

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#49

I walk and today a guy on motorcycle pulled up on me 3x. I mean dude if i dont want to engage, then dont follow, continue to pull over to meet me or whatever

Adding: wanted to add that although my area feels very safe, I dont wanna see any vehicle roll up on me(no shoulder!), because on President's Day, a car rolled up on me, windows came down, airsoft guns came out, and they shot me with rock salt😤

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#50

Sending creepy DMs on Reddit. Seriously dudes....wtf makes you think I'm gonna send you naked pictures of myself?? Immediately BLOCK.

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#51

Using their loud voice when expressing their opinion against your opinion. That is when talking normally they have a certain tone and non aggression in their voice up until you disagree with something they have said and then their voice turns aggressive.

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#52

Sexual harassment while I'm walking down a street.
I have a very prominent sway to my hips when I walk. It looks like I'm trying to get attention from men but it's just my natural walk.

Despite what men think, I HATE this attention. Don't honk your horn at me...shout disgusting comments...or give me attention in general.

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#53

Had an old man keep passing me at a public park comment about my daughter "there goes my girlfriend". She is 2. And yes, undeniably the cutest, but f**k that. That's just gross.

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#54

Men sitting next to you in empty buses. It’s not friendly nor nice, it creeps us out.

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#55

I’m of the male variety. I drive Uber a lot, sometimes up to 12/hrs daily. I treat everyone with respect and will greet them when they enter and confirm their destination. Usually I’m quiet because I’m more introverted and just let the radio play. I started to notice girls would enter their address in their own gps on their phones (one time it started speaking turn by turn directions) until she quickly fumbled and turned it off. I didn’t think much of it but then one time a woman got in the car and she was wearing a sweatshirt from a local festival. We started talking about the festival and how our families go every year etc. when we got to her drop off, she thanked me for talking to her because she said usually she is so anxious in Ubers with male drivers. I honestly had never considered that before, so now I always try to start neutral conversations with woman in the car even if I’m tired.

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#56

Physical intimidation. Standing too close to me or backing me into a corner and making me feel trapped. It puts me on the defensive so fast.

Edit for clarification: I know some men do this intentionally but many do it unintentionally. Often men don’t realize just how uncomfortable or intimidated they can make women feel with their behavior and body language.

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#57

As a woman in the service industry and also in general a lot of men tell me to smile because I’m pretty. It’s something that makes you feel reaaally uncomfortable inside like predatory almost. Sort of like cat calling (but that’s a give in)

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#58

Not accepting no or anything you explicitly outline to them.

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#59

Obviously can’t speak for all women but we generally don’t have a fantasy of “belonging” to someone in a controlling sense. A lot of men can be pretty controlling without even knowing it.

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#60

Holding something sharp in an argument.

Blocking an exit.

Innocently touching me without consent.

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#61

Excessive compliments. One, is enough and sweet, but a couple more in the same setting…creeps me out and makes me uncomfortable…

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#62

Calling other girls bitches so casually in conversation like they didn't just drop the biggest red flag

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#63

When they taunt me about not wanting to have a conversation with them (a stranger).

A recent example that I want to vent about: last week my friend and were smoking outside the bar she works at, and she thought she recognized her male friend.

She quickly realized it wasn't him but it was too late and the stranger came to us and CROUCHED to be at our level (we were sitting on a step) and simply would not take our explanation -that we mistakenly thought he was someone else- for an answer. (Edit: we had already said and signalled to him that it was a mistake, so when he inserted himself in our bubble, I was like "alright there he f****n goes")

For way too long he stayed there and purposefully ignored what we were saying and pretended to not understand, for example, he went "It was a mistake? What do you mean? I don't think anything in life is a mistake." Bla bla bla. He would turn anything we said into a question.

It was infuriating. I tried stating politely that it was a mistake, we apologize and he could go.
I tried shutting him down and saying straight up " can you please just go?" but he just would not budge.
Anyone would have known by our facial expressions and tone of voice that we were not enjoying him being there at all and were seriously wanting him to leave. I ended up just grabbing my friend, we got up and quickly walked back to the bar a few doors down.

As we were walking I heard him say "What, you're scared?"

This stuff happens to me too often. These men get off of making you uncomfortable or knowing they're ruining your fun. I have to get better at ignoring them but god it's so difficult. They don't mind standing 1 foot away from me, talking to me while being ignored, that's easy. But I just want to scream and tell them to f**k off. I'm scared of them, a minute of it feels like 10, I'm scared they could get angry just as they could take my silence for a green flag.

The thoughts that go through my head are incredibly violent whenever this happens.I absolutely despise men who do this, I am an adult human just like you, I deserve the same respect, I deserve not to get bullied by strangers on the street who have never seen me and will never see me again.

Sorry for the rant.

EDIT: The only funny thing about this whole interaction is that my friend and I are fluent in english and french, so after we explained, politely asked him to leave, etc... and he wouldn't budge, I started having a conversation with my friend in french and telling him to f**k off, and insulting him with a deadpan expression. Admittedly that wasn't gonna accomplish anything and it's an a*****e move but it felt good, kind of like reversing the table. HA! Who's talking to a wall NOW hmm?

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#64

When a man asks to come inside my place after a date when it wasn’t planned in advance during the early stages of dating; still getting to know them.

Personally this has happened to me a handful of times. Sometimes the men who do this will insist on picking me up, which - yes - a gentleman will pick up their date from their place; truly appreciated.

When they drop me off afterwards and walk me to my door (which - again - it’s a kind gesture), but then they invite themselves in, I feel trapped.

I’ll invite you over when I’m comfortable.

If they have the courage to invite themselves into my home early-on and spontaneously, what other boundaries of mine will they push? It frightens me.

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#65

Catcalling or harassing pregnant women. I'd heard of it happening but never witnessed it until now. Now that I'm pregnant, I can't move as fast or as well as before and I'm having to worry over not just my safety but my child's too. It's terrifying in a whole new way to have a stranger looming over me and trying to chat me up when my body is contributing to my vulnerability more than ever.

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#66

Or…blatantly taking your picture, with their phone, in public. Do they think we don’t notice? Even worse when their aim is clearly directed below your neckline.

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#67

Commenting on how short or weak I look and explaining how easy it would be to pick me up or overpower me. Do men think I’ll think its sexy when they do this? Probably. Is it extremely concerning and scary? YES.

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#68

Today I was at the corner store buying a bag of chips and cigars. As soon as I walked in, some dude eyed me up and down and kept making "Damnnnn." Remarks at me as I walked to get my bag of chips. I got to the register to pay, he was suddenly behind me and continued making, "God damnnnn" "Mmm" remarks. I couldn't even focus to pay, I entered the wrong pin for my card, my hands were shaking. I was scared and super uncomfortable. He even followed me out and watched me drive away.

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#69

When you get close to me in a conversation, and I take a step back, don’t step forward. I’m trying to get some personal space. I’m making a bubble. Don’t invade my bubble!

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#70

Yelling, even when it’s not at me. They could yell at the tv and it triggers my fight or flight.

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#71

Staring for too long. Especially into my eyes if I don't know you. There's nothing more uncomfortable than unwanted staring from a dude you don't know like he can see underneath your clothes. It's a small disturbing thing that can really give me the chills.

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#72

Last night I went clubbing and a guy asked me if I wanted a drink. When I said sure, he said coyly, “we’ll see.” A few minutes later, he left the spot where we were standing and came back with a drink for me. The fact that he didn’t ask me what I wanted and just brought me something he picked out was sketchy af. Also, he was acting like him buying me a drink was transactional and I owed him something in return. Those 2 things made me worried that at best, he was an a*****e and at worst, he spiked it. I didn’t accept the drink and left the club shortly after

Moral of the story: if you’re buying a woman a drink, be considerate enough to ask her what she wants, have her accompany you to the bar and don’t expect anything in return

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#73

Keep on pursuing me when I say no. It makes you seem obsessed. It worries me at what lengths you will go to make me say yes, or if you might possibly do something to any male I'm friends with. Obsession is a scary thing.

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#74

- Thinking “no” is just us flirting and repeatedly trying anyway.

- Crossing the street when we do, and continuing to walk behind us.

- Commenting on how little we are (personally, I’m 5’2”), compared to them.

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#75

Getting angry/lashing out. I've been in situations where I was genuinely afraid for my safety when some dude (my boss at the time - I was 18 and working at a restaurant) started yelling at me after I made a mistake. He started getting up close in my personal space and moving his fist in the air all up in my face. He had to be restrained by one of my male coworkers.
Turns out he was an alcoholic with anger issues, but my point still stands - be careful of your body language when you get mad at someone, especially if you're a big guy. You sometimes don't realize how it can affect the person in front of you, even if you know that you won't hurt them.

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#76

Also, if we’re making out for the first time and they do something aggressive (like…pinning your arms over your head then holding both wrists with one hand, leaving their other hand free).

It can be hot as f**k but if I don’t know you that well there’s a terrifying moment I wonder what I’m in for.

EDIT: I think OP's boyfriend may have hit upon the perfect solution for this (see replies).

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#77

Picking me up and moving me. I’m not very tall and dislike being treated like a doll to move around. Don’t f*****g touch me without my expressed permission.

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#78

Instantly turning hostile when you said no, online or real life.

Calling me antisocial and then insulting me just because I don’t wanna discuss with you, a stranger, how you like eating broccoli. Really?

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#79

Anecdote from the wife: waiting to meet at a designated spot near a public space, under a street lamp, but you're wearing your hood up leaned against a wall not acknowledging anyone who passes by.

Told me it was creepy as f**k and was surprised when she texted to see it was in fact me just waiting.

I guess body posture and lighting is a factor. Had literally no idea.

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#80

I was running the other day. Some dude who was standing a few feet in front of me stared at me and started walking quickly toward me while raising an arm.

My gut reaction was that he was about to attack me. Turns out he was just trying to give me a high five.

To him I'm sure there was nothing scary or weird about what he did. But to me it was this random man who was larger than me coming straight at me while getting his arm ready to do something that could have ended badly for me. I don't have the luxury to assume the best case scenario. I will always default to the worst case because in the off chance it IS a worst case I'm more prepared.

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#81

3 years ago I matched with a guy on tinder and agreed to meet up with him. He suggested going to a park and when I got there it was a heavily wooded area with a trail and I stupidly followed him into the trail. We walked around for a while, sat on some rocks, then it started getting dark and we decided to head out but we ended up getting lost and not being able to find the exit and we stumbled upon a grave sized hole in the dirt and at this point it was pitch black and I was thinking it was all a set it up and that I was going to be ambushed. I pointed out the grave sized hole and he seemed scared too so I gave him the benefit of the doubt and stayed quiet. We finally found an exit after about an hour of stumbling in pitch black darkness. We’re still dating to this day and I’ve brought up what a horrible date plan that was, and how it came off the wrong way lol and he said he didn’t realize it at the time. It was a total curb your enthusiasm moment (I was picked up that day so I didn’t have a car with me to back out and drive home, so that was pretty dumb of me too)

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#82

Coming on way too strong, especially online sometimes.

Or being way too demanding, about stuff at times.

And this one doesn't necessarily frighten me. Just kind of freaks me out. But at work, have had two foreign dudes, just starting at me when we're working. Both have been box builders, and just continuously stare as they make boxes or in the break room. And I don't care how "nice/friendly", people say they are. You don't just non stop gawk at people.

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#83

This dude used to come into The restaurant I was waitressing at and would wear this “Cum & Go” shirt and would offer to buy a bunch of underage girls shots. He didn’t realize he was creepy, you could tell by the way he paraded his friends around with his boom box and play loud a*s music on the patio of the restaurant. Apparently he was a rich prick who donated money to the restaurant all the time.

After I left, I heard a story that he fixated on one of the waitresses that was nice to him, and he would follow her around and to her car. He even bought her a s**t Ton of expensive presents for Christmas which she refused.

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#84

Approaching while in a car and blocking our path with said car. Happened while I was on a walk so he could have parked, approached on foot, and maintained a respectable distance.

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#85

Raising their voice.

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#86

I haven’t dated in almost a decade and this recent relationship I was in, was the most comfortable one that I thought it was always going to feel comfortable.. until we went on our first date and I tried telling him so many times to stop touching me because I hate physical touch (now realizing I just liked him platonically) and he wouldn’t stop and it really made me feel uncomfortable.. he crossed so many boundaries. I wish I didn’t have to feel like this with someone I considered being in a relationship with. We didn’t even last a whole month.. I didn’t want to see him again. So in short, when they cross boundaries and make me feel weak and worthless.

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#87

Invading my space.

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#88

Push for romantic emotional intimacy when it's inappropriate. I'm trying to be your friend, not your girlfriend. Don't make it weird, it only succeeds in making me uncomfortable and not want to be your friend let alone date you.

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#89

Approaching me at a speed other than a leisurely walk or being overly familiar.

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#90

The only things they say to you (even if not inappropriate) are sexually charged or are inappropriate…

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#91

I get scared when men get aggressive with each other… like I could feel an oncoming fight. Even if’s just a small bicker.

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#92

Anyone making a lot of noise in public wants some kind of attention and I don't always have a good read on what kind.

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