What is Date Rape?
Date rape is a form of sexual violence occurring on a social outing or date. It is also a common form of acquaintance rape.
What is Acquaintance Rape?
Acquaintance rape is a forced sex action between two people who know each other. The perpetrator can be anyone: a partner, a friend, a date, a relative, or a neighbor.
What is Considered Forced Sex?
Forced sex happens when the victim does not or is unable to give consent it doesn’t always mean physical violence.
It can be:
- Threatening to harm you
- Making it seem like something even worse will happen if you don’t give in
- Having sex with someone who is too drunk or high to say no
- Not taking no for an answer
- Threatening to tell other people that you had sex unless you give in
- Saying things such as, “If you don’t I will hurt myself”
Can Date Rape only Happen on a Date?
Date rape can happen when you are out on a date, at a party, or in some other social setting. It can happen when people have just met or been going out for a long time.
Protect yourself with the facts of Date Rape
- Know your sexual intentions and limits. You have the right to say NO to any unwanted sexual contact
- Communicate your limits firmly and directly. If you say NO say it like you mean it. Don’t give mixed messages
- Don’t rely on ESP to get your message across. Don’t assume that your date will automatically know how you feel
- Listen to your gut feeling. If you feel uncomfortable or think you might be at risk, leave immediately and go to a safe place
- Attend large parties with friends you can trust. Agree to “look out” for one another
- Be aware that alcohol and drugs are often related to date rape
- Avoid falling for such lines as “You would if you loved me.” If they loved you they would respect your feelings