According to the Rape Abuse Incest National Network (RAINN), every two and a half minutes, somewhere in America, someone is sexually assaulted.
Although anyone can be a victim of sexual assault, nine out of 10 rape victims are female. One in six American women is the victim of sexual assault. In the United States, a total 17.7 million women have been victims of these crimes, a number equal to the number of women living with HIV worldwide.
Young females are most at risk. About 44 percent of rape victims are under age 18 and 80 percent are under age 30. The majority of reported victims and offenders are college age, with rape victimization being highest among 16-19 year olds. Perhaps surprisingly, almost two-thirds of all rapes are committed by someone the victim knows. In 2005, 73 percent of sexual assaults were perpetrated by a non-stranger.
Sexual assault and rape have lasting impacts on every victim. Rape victims are more likely to suffer from depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, abuse alcohol and drugs, contemplate suicide, contract a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and engage in high-risk sexual behavior.
In addition, they might experience flashbacks, recurrent nightmares, panic attacks, distrust of others, difficulties with intimacy and much more.
Education is the only effective means of preventing sexual assault. True education means challenging a culture that supports and reinforces violence by fostering respect, support for victims, intolerance of sexual assault and abusive behaviors, obtaining consent and healthy communication about sex.
Furthermore, given that 16-19-year-olds are at the highest risk for rape, education needs to be taking place with middle and high school students.
Take a stand against sexual assault. Challenge myths, misconceptions and attitudes about rape and rape victims. Teach your loved ones healthy communication skills about sex. Support survivors you know. Demand education from your school district. Finally, remember the one in six statistic. Anyone you know could be the victim of assault, or may already be a survivor.
Kristen Spencer
Oakhurst