Sexual Assault

Rape is when either a stranger or someone you know forces you to have sex against your will, regardless of whether you are passed out, too drunk to refuse, too scared to argue, or some other reason why you do not consent.

Rape is not about sex; it is a crime of violence. It is hard to imagine that someone familiar, like a date, a steady partner, or an acquaintance as a rapist.

Rape is an equal opportunity crime, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. Although less frequently reported among same-sex partners, the resulting emotional and physical issues are the same for everyone.

The information provided is slanted toward female victims, simply because rape is still considered a woman's issue.

Some Facts:

• One out of every four women will be the victim of a sexual assault in her lifetime.
• One in five oollege age women will be the vicitm of a sexual assualt during a typical five year college career.
• One out of every ten men will be the victim of a sexual assault in his lifetime.
• Rape is one of the most under-reported crimes, with only one of every ten assaults reported to the police. The numbers are even higher among male victims.
• One out of every twelve college men admit to acts that met the legal definition of rape, yet they do not view themselves as a rapist.
• Half of all college students do define an attack as a rape, especially if no weapon was involved, there are no signs of physical injury or alcohol is involved.
• Between 80 - 90 percent of victims and assailants know each other. The more intimate the relationship, the more likely a rape will be completed.

 Myths and Realities

MYTH: Provocative dress can cause a rape.
FACT: Victims are chosen because of their vulnerability, not because they are sexually provocative.

MYTH: When it comes to sex, no really means yes.
FACT: The word no means no. It should never be interpreted any other way.

MYTH: Some women cry rape to get even.
FACT: Rape is no more falsely reported than any other felony crime.

MYTH: Some people secretly want to be raped.
FACT: A sexual fantasy is controlled by the individual, and does not include pain and humiliation. No one wants the pain, injury or violence associated with rape.

MYTH: If there was not weapon involved, then there was no rape.
FACT: A rapist may use their fists, verbal threats, intimidation, drugs, alcohol, physical isolation, or the weight of their body to overcome the victim. Regardless of the method, it is still rape.

MYTH: Kissing, necking, or petting with your partner means that you have agreed to sex.
FACT: Everyone has the right to say no to any sexual activity, regardless of what preceded it, and to have that no respected.

What Does a Rapist Look Like?

Unfortunately, there are no absolute indicators. In fact, most rapists are married, have children, and enjoy a normal sex life. Below is a list of some attitudes that may indicate someone has power and control problems: Remember, these characteristics do not necessarily mean that this person is a rapist!

• Are your ideas and personal preferences taken into account when plans are made concerning the two of you?
• Does your partner mix sex and violence?
• Are you treated as the property of your partner?
• Does your partner think that your purpose is to serve their needs?
• Is your partner physically violent and/or emotionally abusive?

Only rapists can end rape. Below are some things you can do to protect yourself:

• Challenge the myths and stereotypes.
• Communicate clearly. Examine and express your sexual limits before you enter into a sexual situation.
• Avoid vulnerable situations. Meet new people in public places, or double date until you know each other well.
• Let someone know where you are going and what time you expect to be back.
• Limit your use of alcohol and other drugs. It is much harder to be in control of a situation if you are under the influence.
• Be assertive. Insist that you are treated with respect.

Sometimes, no matter what you do, you may be the victim of a sexual assault. It is important to NEVER feel guilty for what you did or did not decide to do.

No One Ever Deserves to be Raped!

If you are attacked, go with your instincts. Depending on the situation, you may decide to run, scream, kick, bite, etc. Keep in mind that your goal is to survive and escape safely. But, if your life is in danger, it may be best to comply. Submission is never the same thing as consent! You are the only one who can decide what is best for you in that particular situation.

Admit that you could be a victim. Think through situations. Think of what you are capable of doing if attacked. As much as possible, have a plan of action in mind before you are in a difficult situation.

When the attack is over:

•  Get to a safe place.
• Report the attack to the police as soon as you are able. The only way a rapist will be caught is if the police know of their crimes.
• Do not change clothes, shower, bathe or douche, or disturb the area where the attack occurred, if possible. As dirty or unattractive as you may feel, there may be physical evidence, such as DNA present that will aid in the prosecution of the attacker.
• Seek medical attention. It is important to be checked for injuries and tested for any diseases caused by the rape. In Wichita, the Sexual Assault Center will send an advocate to the hospital to be with you and help you through the examination.
• Seek support. It is normal to feel confusion, anger, guilt and other very strong emotions. It is important that a victim seek emotional support and/or counseling. Counseling is available through the Counseling and Testing Center on campus, or through the Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center.
  
  

  Important Numbers:
  Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center Crisis Line 263-3002
  Click here to view their web site for further information.
  WSU Counseling Services 978-3440
  WSU Student Health Services 978-3620
  WSU Police Department 978-3450 or if on campus 911