Rape On College Campuses

Each year, thousands of parents say good-bye to their high school graduates as their children head off to college campuses. All with the common expectation that their daughters and sons will remain safe and make adequate decisions. The chilling reality regarding the well-being of college students, is that accounts of rape are very prevalent on college campuses. Many may even puzzle at the question as to what rape is. Rape is defined as “to have sexual intercourse by force without the approval of the victim (Vera). With lack of awareness regarding rape throughout college campuses, students across the nation are affected both physically and mentally.

In the year of 2016 alone, there were 214 cases of sexual violence reported on college campuses

Research done by Minnesota State University Mankato shows that 75% of all sexual assault cases occur when alcohol is linked to either the perpetrator, the victim, or in some cases both individuals (Cullen). Drugs are also easily accessible and are predominant in college communities. Both substances alter one’s judgement temporarily, and are widely used when taking advantage of a victim.

Contrary to popular belief, most reported cases of rape are committed by someone the victim knew. Half of these assaults occur on dates for college students, who are in a vulnerable position and are not expecting an attack. Locations of these attacks vary from secluded locations to eventful scenes (Assault on Campus). Places such as the victim’s residence where there are no witnesses present are common time and time again. Oppositely, busy locations such as house parties are also widespread for assaults with the attacker taking advantage of the noisy

In some cases, victim’s emotions can become so overbearing that in can potentially interrupt daily activities. For college students specifically, this becomes an issue as they find difficulty with sleeping and concentrating. “Long term metal health effects depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder” (Assault on Campus). Research shows that every rape victim faces major depression disorders at some point following his or her assault. “Studies estimate that one in three women who are raped contemplate suicide and about one in ten rape victims actually attempt suicide” (Sexual Assault). Mental health issues are not the only concerns for victims as they recover. Potential physical health fears following an attack include the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, and for women, the possibility of