|
What is rape?
Rape is a very serious crime. Though the exact definition of rape varies from state to state, it is generally defined as forced vaginal, anal, or oral penetration.
What is the difference between rape and sexual assault?
Sexual assault has a more broad definition that includes any unwelcome sexual contact, either direct or through clothing, which is committed by threat, force, or without the consent of the other person.
What role do alcohol and drugs play in rapes?
About one third of all rapes are committed by individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and that number is much higher for inappropriate sexual exchanges on college campuses. Courts of law hold perpetrators fully responsible for their sexual misconduct, even if they were drinking or on drugs at the time of the incident. If a victim was under the influence, courts of law usually consider that individual incapable of giving sexual consent. Thus even if the victim did not fight back, their assertion of rape is typically considered valid, as their drug or alcohol usage may have prevented them from responding as they would have while sober.
What are some of its effects on a victim?
Rape victims often experience severe and long-lasting distress beyond the experience of the rape itself. About 90% of victims report physical injury. Other common aftereffects include pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and psychological trauma.
How prevalent are rapes and sexual assaults?
Rape is the most common serious offense against women, but an estimated 84% of rapes go unreported. Every academic year, over 3% of college women report a rape or rape attempt, but that percentage is likely just a fraction of the actual number.
Who are the victims of rape?
Though approximately 87% of rape victims are women, men can also be victims of rape. College-aged young adults are one of the most more . A startling one out of every six American women has experienced a rape or attempted rape in her lifetime.
Who are the perpetrators?
More often than not, the victims know their rapists. Only 30% of rapes are carried out by strangers. The average age of arrested rapists is 31. Approximately 52% are white and 22% of imprisoned rapists are married.
Where do most rapes occur?
Contrary to popular belief, most rapes do not occur in a dark alley. 6 in 10 take place in the home of the victim, a friend, or a relative. In 2001, only about 7% involved the use of a weapon, with most rapists relying on physical force to control the victim.
akocomment! |
