Rape is a complex issue with many factors that has faced an ever-changing and evolving definition throughout the years. At one time, a husband could not be charged with rape against his wife and it was not acknowledged that men could also be raped. But now this has changed and the most basic definition of rape is any amount of unwelcome sexual intercourse (Greenfield, 1997).
Rape statistics are difficult to collect because of the number, which is estimated to be significant, that go unreported. The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that only 37% of completed rapes and 35% of attempted rapes are reported to the police (RAINN, 2005).
Although women are most often the victims of rape (approximately 94% of the reported cases), men are not exempt and face many of the same issues during recovery (RAINN, 2005). Rape victims must address physical as well as emotional trauma from the event and must make choices about how to deal with these factors. It is important to provide victims with information about the options he or she has, but it is not always appropriate or appreciated to try to convince the person to take certain actions.
Physical injuries can result from the act of rape and are often internal where they may not be immediately noticed. Trained medical personnel are the most qualified to determine the extent of the injuries. Seeking medical attention quickly can help prevent pregnancy and some sexually transmitted diseases. It is best to seek medical attention as soon as possible and before showering to ensure that evidence can be collected for use in a criminal investigation (University of Notre Dame, 2004). Most hospital emergency rooms are equipped with rape kits used to conduct examinations to collect these samples.
The U.S. Department of Justice reports that about 80% of rape victims are under age 30, and half of these cases are reported from individuals younger than 18. Nearly all rape that occurs in young children under the age of 12 involves an offender known by the victim. Rape victims in the 18-29 years old age group report to have had a prior relationship with their rapist in about two-thirds of cases. This relationship was with an acquaintance in 57% of cases and with a family member in 8% (RAINN, 2005).
Rape may not be reported because of fear and anger toward the rapist, guilt, shame, or even feelings of responsibility. A rapist may threaten the well being of a victim or family members of a victim to prevent the reporting of the crime. Victims must be prepared for a long, painful judicial process and be aware that there is no guarantee the accused rapist will be convicted (Rape Treatment Center, 2002).
Reporting a rape can make a victim feel less helpless and makes a statement that rape is not an act that can be tolerated. Rape must be reported to the police for an individual to qualify for Crime Victims' Compensation, which can pay for medical expenses and other costs incurred as a result of the rape such as counseling (Victim Compensation & Government Claims Board, 2003).
Having someone to talk to after a traumatic event such as rape helps the victim begin the psychological healing process. Hotlines are available 24 hours a day and their trained staff can provide counseling and referrals to other trained counselors.
CSULB Campus Police can also be of assistance to their students. Please call 9-1-1 from any campus phone or 562-985-4101. Their website provides detailed information about what to do after an assault. See CSULB Campus Police website for more details.
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