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. Furthermore, sexual activity between a minor over the age of 14 and someone 18 or older may be viewed as statutory rape, even though it is not reportable under the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act.

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, page 66-69 of the 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.