WHAT CONSTITUTES RAPE? 

Rape is forced, manipulated, or coerced sexual intercourse perpetrated without a person’s consent -regardless of whether the assailant is a stranger, acquaintance, dating partner, or relative.  Rape is a criminal act of hostility, control and aggression. And this is VERY IMPORTANT:   A person who has been drinking or taking drugs cannot legally give consent.  But a person who has been drinking or taking drugs is still by law held accountable for criminal acts.  If you have sex with someone who is not able to give consent, you may be committing rape; and your own intoxication is not an excuse under the law. 

Rape Prevention:  Five Factors 

Drugs and Alcohol:  BEWARE!

- Sex and alcohol do not mix. 

- If your date is not sober enough to give consent and you have sex anyway, it is legally rape, even if you are also intoxicated

- If you plan to drink, have a buddy system--a friend who is looking out for your best interest 

Communication:  NO MIXED MESSAGES!!

Say what you mean 
If your partner is sending unclear signals, ask for clarification 

Expectations:  THINK AHEAD!

Decide what your sexual values and limits are
You never owe anyone sex, even if they spend a lot on a date
Don’t assume that a partner who consented to sex in the past is consenting THIS time--check it out! 

Assertiveness:  NO MEANS NO!

If you say no, say it in a loud, clear voice
If you hear “no,” STOP and BELIEVE IT 

Stereotypes:  DON’T BE FOOLED!

Men don’t always have to be aggressive; women don’t always have to be quiet and passive

Sexy clothing and flirtatious behavior are not invitations to sex, they are ways to attract attention

If your date says no to sex, don’t assume it is a personal rejection

Violence is not the way to handle feelings of frustration  

Source Cited:  Project Sister “Date and Acquaintance Rape Prevention” 

Whittier College takes sexual offenses seriously.

Be informed!  Read the College’s Sexual Offense Policy, pp.117 - 122, Student Handbook.   $ Look for programs sponsored by the Counseling Center, Campus Safety, and your Resident Advisor Staff.   

For confidential counseling/information:  Counseling Center ext. 4239 

For anonymous and confidential information:  Project Sister Hotline

(24 hours)   800.656.HOPE (4673) 

You may need medical attention: go to the Health Center on campus or to the Emergency Room at Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital, 12401 Washington Blvd., in Whittier. 

JThe next inSTALLments can now also be found  at  www.whittier.edu: click on Student Life, click on Wellness Letter.