What is what to do when a guy puts his hand on your thigh?

Okay, here's information on what to do when a guy puts his hand on your thigh, formatted in Markdown with linked important subjects:

It's crucial to remember that you have the right to control your own body and set your own boundaries. What you do in this situation depends entirely on your comfort level and what you want.

Here's a breakdown of potential actions:

• Assess the Situation: Consider the context. Is this someone you know and trust? Is it in a public or private setting? Is this a first-time occurrence, or part of a pattern? Context can help you determine the intent and safety of the situation.

• Non-Verbal Communication:

  • Remove His Hand: You can simply and directly remove his hand from your thigh. This is a clear, non-confrontational way to set a boundary.
  • Shift Away: Physically move away from him. Create more space between you. This signals discomfort.
  • Give a Disapproving Look: A direct look showing disapproval can sometimes be enough to deter the behavior.

• Verbal Communication:

  • Be Direct: Say something like, "Please don't do that," or "I'm not comfortable with that." Be clear and firm. This removes any ambiguity.
  • Set a Boundary: State your boundary clearly. For example, "I don't like being touched like that."
  • Ask "Why?": If you're unsure of the intent, asking "Why are you doing that?" can make him aware of his actions and give him an opportunity to explain himself (though his explanation doesn't excuse unwanted touching).
  • Use Humor (If Appropriate): In some situations, you might use humor to deflect the situation, but only if you feel safe and it aligns with your personality.

• Escalate if Necessary: If he ignores your verbal or non-verbal cues, or if you feel unsafe, you may need to escalate.

  • Be Firm and Loud: If you've already tried being polite, it's okay to be more assertive. Say, "I told you to stop. Don't touch me."
  • Remove Yourself from the Situation: If possible, leave the area. Go to a safer location.
  • Seek Help: If you feel threatened or unsafe, ask for help from a friend, family member, or someone in authority. If you are in a public place, alert staff or security.
  • Consider Reporting: If the touching constitutes sexual%20assault or harassment, consider reporting the incident to the appropriate authorities or human%20resources department (if applicable).

• Your Feelings are Valid: It's important to acknowledge your own feelings. Don't dismiss them or feel obligated to be polite if you are uncomfortable. Your comfort%20level and personal%20boundaries are what matter.