Acquaintance rape
What is acquaintance rape and what are the steps that need to be taken if it happens to me?
Acquaintance rape occurs when a woman is forced to have sexual activity against her will by someone she knows (a friend, date, neighbor, partner or husband). Most rape victims are women, but men can also be raped. Many acquaintance rapists see their actions as seduction, not rape.
If you are in a dangerous situation, it is important to be clear and assertive. Try to stay calm and use active resistance (kick, scream, fight or run). Use passive resistance such as saying that you have a sexually transmitted disease.
Rape is not always preventative but there are steps that can be taken to reduce your risk of being in this situation. Communicate your desires and limits, avoid excessive drinking and drug usage, and pay attention to your feelings.
If you are raped, don’t blame yourself (you are the victim of a crime). Be sure to seek medical help and talk to someone trained to help such as the Counseling Center, the Health and Wellness Center, the Women’s Resource Center, the Sexual Assault Hotline, trained police to help with rape victims or the Emergency Room staff, doctors and nurses (family, partners, and friends may not always understand or support you).
