Acquaintance rape

Rape is sexual intercourse that is performed without consent and done mainly by force or deception. Acquaintance rape (also known as date rape) is performed by someone, who the victim knows, such as a casual acquaintance or new date. Anyone can be raped. Isolation and vulnerability increase chances of being raped.

Follow these precautions to avoid a potential rape or other sexual assault situation:

• take time and use public places to get to know your companion or date
• stay with a group of people
• tell someone you trust your date's name, destination, and planned time of return
• take money for a phone call and taxi fare with you
• avoid people who show controlling behavior, or are physically and verbally abusive
• avoid people who verbally and emotionally manipulate you
• learn to trust your "gut" feelings
• avoid risky areas, such as deserted areas
• take a self-defense course
• carry a loud whistle and use it to attract attention when in danger and
• avoid excessive alcohol and drugs

Be alert for possible use of date rape drugs. Without your awareness, they can be slipped quickly into a drink. These drugs cause drowsiness, a loss of coordination, dizziness, and memory loss.

If you are raped:

• Contact the police or a rape crisis center.
• Go to an emergency room for an examination, treatment for any injuries, and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy. Medical facts will be taken during the physical examination that can be used in criminal charges against the rapist.
• Do NOT shower, bathe, or change clothes before undergoing a physical examination.
• Have a nurse or rape crisis counselor present for support during the physical examination and evidence collection procedure.
• Get counseling from a professional who specializes in helping victims recover from rape.

Remember, rape is not the victim's fault. Rape victims experience a multitude of feelings including confusion, shame, anger, and fear.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File PERS3190.rf2 VRS# 7167 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1998, 2002 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.