According to most estimates, 80-90% of rapes are not reported to authorities. Current trends project that 1 in 3 American women will be sexually assaulted at some point during her life.
The typical rape victim is a 16-24 year-old woman. Anyone, however -- man or woman, adult or child -- can be the victim of rape. Most commonly, the assailant is a 25-44 year-old man who plans his attack. He usually chooses a woman of the same race. Nearly half the time, the victim knows the rapist at least casually, by working or living near him. Alcohol is involved in more than 1 out of 3 rapes.
Over 50% of rapes occur in the victim''s home. The rapist breaks into the victim''s home or gains access under false pretenses, such as asking to use the phone or posing as a repairman or salesman.
Rape is a violent act, and most commonly committed by a male upon a female. However, some cases of rape have been reported in which a woman has raped a man. Rape also may occur between members of the same sex. This is more prevalent in situations where access to the opposite sex is restricted (such as prisons, military settings, and single-sex schools).
Rape is an act of violence expressed through sex, but is not primarily about sex.
Those who face some form of discrimination are believed to be at higher risk of sexual assault. This increased vulnerability can assume various forms. For example, those with disabilities or limited language skills have a decreased ability to call for help; prostitutes or convicted prisoners have decreased credibility.
