Date Rape Essay

One of the most common misconceptions about rape is that is it committed by strangers most of the time. However, this is not the case. Date rape is an epidemic affecting tens of thousands of people across the world at staggering rates. The rape stereotype in our culture today is a jumping out of the shadows type of rape. Most people think that when someone is raped either their house is broken into and they are attacked, they are kidnapped, or something along those lines. Actually, 84% of women know their attacker (Hammond). This can become problematic for our society because victims are looking out for an attack that most likely will not take place, while ignoring assaults that are far more likely.
Date rape is defined as forcible sexual

The rapist could forcibly make the victim have sex or do other types of sexual activity with them. This type is the most similar to the “rape stereotype,” but is still committed by someone the victim knows. The perpetrator can also use different types of drugs to inebriate the victim (Hammond). One drug most commonly used is alcohol, because it is the easiest for people to get their hands on. With alcohol, the assaulter might not even have to drug the victim themselves. If a person is already severely inebriated, then all they have to do is get the victim alone much of the time. However, the perpetrator may also have the goal of getting the victim drunk (Pumphrey). They may pressure the victim to keep drinking, even when they know they are past their limit. Other types of drugs can also be used to lure victims into having sex or make them unconscious. Gamma-hydroxybutrate, also known as GHB, is one drug used for this purpose. GHB can lead to hallucinations, confusion, nausea, and memory loss which is why people with the intentions of assaulting teens and other people use it (Hallikeri). Another drug used is Ketamine which is a medication often used with anesthesia. It helps start and maintain the effects of it. Ketamine can sometimes lead to confusion, dizziness, fainting, as well as tiredness and weakness (Dodich). This makes it a perfect drug for an assaulter looking to rape someone they

One option is to take self-defense classes. They are often offered at churches and community centers free of cost, so this can be a great way to have peace of mind. However, this option would not be very effective if the victim is drugged. A way to help prevent this type of rape is to take trustworthy friends to parties or to clubs. Friends can all help keep track of each other and intervene if they notice something suspicious. Another way for a potential victim to protect their self is to ask for assistance or scream if they are in danger (Hammond). Be slightly embarrassed for the rest of the night is much easier to deal with than a lifetime of mistrusting people and thinking everyone is suspicious. Also, trusting your own instincts is a great way to prevent date rape. If you do sense something sketchy about someone, do not get in a car with them or have a drink with them. Being clear about boundaries can help prevent rape as well. If a person does not intend to have sex with that person, they need to be clear about it (Polletta). A lot of the time, lines can be blurred especially when partners become engaged with each other in an intimate way. Lastly, adolescents, and everyone for that matter, should be aware of their surroundings (Pumphrey). If a person knows they have an alcohol issue and tend to get drunk easily, then going to a party alone with a great deal