Date rape is pervasive in our society. It is an awful crime that is damaging to a woman both physically and psychologically. If a woman did not or could not consent to having sex, it is considered rape (regardless of whether or not the woman has had sex with the man before). Here are a few myths and facts about date rape and what your rights as a woman are.
Just the numbers
According to data collected by the National Study of College Students, 1 in 4 college women have been raped or suffered attempted rape. Women ages 16-24 have 4 times higher risk of being raped than any other population group. 57% of rapes occur on dates.
Drugs are often involved
According to Koss’ article in the academic journal, Sexual Assault, 75% of male students and 55% of female students involved in date rape had been drunk or using drugs. Women, never leave your drink unattended. If you go to the restroom, get a new drink. Be aware of your surroundings. Rape is never okay, but it happens. Do not drink excessively. Stay alert.
Do not trust everyone
Rape does not just occur in dark alleys and shady parking lots. According to smartersex.org, 84% of women are raped by someone they know, such as friends, family or an acquaintance. Women, beware of this. No one deserves to be raped, and it is always okay to say, yell, or scream NO. Being in a man’s bedroom, going on an expensive date or wearing revealing clothing does not mean a woman has agreed to have sex. Women- you never “owe” a man sex. Who cares how expensive dinner was?
Response
This article is in response to an earlier article I wrote that was misperceived by a reader as making light of a date rape drug. I never intended to diminish the gravity of date rape drugs. Rape is never okay, and it is never okay to condone rape, regardless of the circumstances.
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