Sexual Assault Rape and Date Rape

Sexual Assault Rape and Date Rape

The use of force and coercion in sexual relationships is one of the most serious problems in human interactions. The most extreme manifestation of sexual coercion forcing a person to submit to another’s sexual desires is rape. Taking advantage of circumstances that render a person incapable of giving consent (such as when drunk) is also considered sexual assault or rape. Coerced sexual activity in which the victim knows or is dating the rapist is often referred to as date rape.

An estimated 700,000 females are raped annually in the United States, and some males perhaps 10,000 annually are raped each year by other males. However, only a fraction of rapes are actually reported to authorities. For example, the FBI states that only 88,000 forcible rapes were reported to authorities in 2009. Rape victims suffer both physical and psychological injury. The psychological pain can be substantial and long-lasting.

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To protect yourself against rape:

• Follow the guidelines listed earlier for protecting yourself against assault.

• Trust your gut feeling. If you feel you are in danger, don’t hesitate to run and scream.

• Think out in advance what you would do if you were threatened with rape. However, no one knows what he or she will do when scared to death. Trust that you will make the best decision at the time whether to scream, run, fight, or give in to avoid being injured or killed.

To protect yourself against date rape:

• Believe in your right to control what you do. Set limits and communicate them clearly, firmly, and early. Be assertive; men often interpret passivity as permission.

• If you are unsure of a new acquaintance, go on a group date or double date. If possible, provide your own transportation.

• Remember that some men think flirtatious behavior or sexy clothing indicates an interest in having sex.

• Remember that alcohol and drugs interfere with judgment, perception, and communication about sex. In a bar or at a party, don’t leave your drink unattended, and don’t accept opened beverages; watch your drinks being poured. At a party or club, check on friends and ask them to check on you.

• Use the statement that has proved most effective in stopping date rape: “This is rape and I’m calling the cops!”

If you are raped:

• Tell what happened to the first friendly person you meet.

• Call the police. Tell them you were raped and give your location.

• Try to remember everything you can about your attacker and write it down.

• Don’t wash or douche before the medical exam. Don’t change your clothes, but bring a new set with you if you can.

• Be aware that at the hospital you will have a complete exam. Show the physician any bruises or scratches.

• Tell the police exactly what happened. Be honest and stick to your story.

• If you do not want to report the rape to the police, see a physician as soon as possible. Be sure you are checked for pregnancy and STDs.

• Contact an organization with skilled counselors so you can talk about the experience. Look in the telephone directory under “Rape” or “Rape Crisis Center” for a hotline number.

Guidelines for men:

• Be aware of social pressure. It’s OK not to score.

• Understand that “No” means “No.” Stop making advances when your date says to stop. Remember that she has the right to refuse sex.

• Don’t assume that flirtatious behavior or sexy clothing means a woman is interested in having sex, that previous permission for sex applies to the current situation, or that your date’s relationships with other men constitute sexual permission for you.

• Remember that alcohol and drugs interfere with judgment, perception, and communication about sex.

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