What is rape?

The definition of rape according to the Sexual Offences Act includes the following: non-consensual penetration of the mouth, anus or genital organs of one person with the genital organs or another body part of another person, or an object, or part of the body of an animal. Rape can be committed against either male or female by another male or female, although most rapes are committed by men against women. A perpetrator of rape can be anybody - it could be a partner, a family member, friend, work colleague or an acquaintance - it need not be a stranger.

Why does Rape happen?

• Rape is not about sex
• Rapists are often in normal, sexual relationships with other persons when they commit rape
• Rapists plan to rape
• Rapists rape because it makes them feel powerful

Are there different types of rape?

Stranger rape: when the rapist is unknown to the victim

Gang rape: when a victim is raped by more than one person

Date rape: when the rapist is known to the victim

• Rapists often use date rape drugs (e.g. rohypnol)
• The drug is put into the victims drink without them knowing it
• Victim drinks the drink and either falls asleep or loses consciousness
• The rapist is able to rape the victim without her being aware of it or even having any memory of what happened to him or her

Marital rape: rape that occurs within a relationship

• In situations where there is domestic violence & rape, the rape generally happens after a beating - used as an excuse by the abuser as an “apology” for the beating
• Rape in a domestic violence setting is often more sadistic in nature e.g. involves torture or perverted sexual acts, forced prostitution, having sex in front of children, sex with animals, etc. Once again sex is a weapon used to humiliate, degrade, hurt and control the victim
• Physical consequences: injuries to vagina or anus, cuts, bruising, vomiting, miscarriages, bladder infections, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV/AIDS
• Victims who are also physically abused as well as sexually assaulted by a partner experience many overwhelming feelings of endangerment, flashbacks, depression, suicidal thoughts and greater risk of substance abuse as well
• Victims of marital rape are least likely to report the rape or get medical help. This sets up an atmosphere where the violence continues unabated