Medical Health Encyclopedia

Rape

PREVENTION

The most useful means of prevention available currently is to make women more aware of the reality of rape. Law enforcement agencies strongly advocate prevention as the best form of protection. The following safety tips may help minimize the chance of being victimized:

• Keep doors/windows secured with locks.
• If walking or jogging, stay out of secluded or isolated areas and arrange to do the activity with at least one other friend, rather than alone. It is best to engage in activities during daylight hours.
• Try to appear strong, confident, aware, and secure in your surroundings.
• Keep car doors locked while driving, check back of car for intruders prior to getting in, and park in open, well-lighted areas.
• On public transportation, sit near the driver or up front if possible; avoid sitting near groups of young men obviously associated with one another.
• Consider taking a self-defense class, which can promote self-confidence and provide useful skills and strategies for different situations.
• Carry items that can call attention to you if needed (whistles, personal alarms, etc.)
• If an assault attempt is initiated, scream loudly and/or blow a whistle.
• Do not hitchhike. If your vehicle breaks down and someone offers to give you a ride, ask the person to call for help while you stay locked in your vehicle.

Numerous studies have shown that people (especially women) who respond to the situation quickly and actively resist the attacker are more likely to avoid being raped than those who exhibit either passive behavior or no resistance.

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SYMPTOMS

Rape is a very traumatic event. The victim may or may not be able to verbalize that she was actually raped or may come to medical attention for a different complaint. Emotional reactions differ greatly and may include: confusion, social withdrawal, tearfulness, nervousness or seemingly inappropriate laughter, numbness, hostility, and fear.