Primary Prevention involves strategies that occur before a problem takes place, in order to prevent that problem from occurring in the first place. In regard to sexual violence, this means implementation of strategies before the violence has occurred. To do this we must address attitudes and beliefs that contribute to the normalizing and acceptance of sexual violence. We must not only look at individual behaviors and beliefs, but at the belief systems of those that surround the individual, of the communities in which we live, in our institutions, the broader society, and the political system. The Biopsychosocial Model illustrates the systems that must be involved in order to prevent sexualized violence.

Primary Prevention takes sexual assault prevention beyond intervention and risk reduction. This paradigm shifts places the emphasis on sexual violence prevention, not on the potential victim, but rather on ending potential perpetration. Primary prevention involves addressing not only the behaviors and attitudes we want to end, but pushes the dialogue toward behaviors and attitudes we want to see. Ending sexual violence requires a holistic approach that on the outset might appear daunting, but when compared to successful public health campaigns is much more tangible.