Rape

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Post-traumatic stress disorder

Rape is defined as sexual intercourse forced on a person without his or her permission, either by threat of force or on someone who is unable to give consent.

Sexual intercourse may be vaginal, anal, or oral, and may involve the use of a body part or an object.

Sex and rape; Date rape; Sexual assault

According to most estimates, 80% - 90% of rapes are not reported to police. Current trends project that 1 in 3 American women will be sexually assaulted at some point during her life.

The typical rape victim is a 16 - 24-year-old woman. Anyone, however -- man or woman, adult or child -- can be the victim of rape. Other important facts about rape include:

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• Most commonly, the rapist is a 25 - 44-year-old man who plans his attack. He usually chooses a woman of the same race.
• Nearly half the time, the victim knows the rapist from working or living near him.
• Alcohol is involved in more than one out of three rapes.
• Over one-half of rapes occur in the victim's home. The rapist breaks into the victim's home or gains access under false pretenses, such as asking to use the phone or posing as a repairman or salesman.

Date rape occurs when someone forces another person they are dating or spending time with to have sex. Date rape may involve the use of drugs such as flunitrazepam (Rohypnol).

Rape is a violent act, and is most often committed by a male upon a female. However, some cases of rape have been reported in which a woman has raped a man.

• Rape also may occur between members of the same sex. This is more common in places such as prisons, military settings, and single-sex schools.
• Those with physical or mental disabilities or limited language skills are also at higher risk, as are prostitutes.

The best response when being attacked may depend on both the victim and the situation. Attempting to get away and yelling for help is a good first step in most situations. Whether to fight back may depend on the size and behavior of the attacker, as well as whether he is armed.