Frequently Asked Questions

How often does rape occur for college students?
1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men experience sexual assault during their lifetime. 1 in 4 women experience sexual assault or attempted sexual assault during their college years.

Why don't people report rape?
Rape is not reported due to intense feelings of shame, humiliation, and self-blame. Other reasons include fear of the perpetrator, fear of parents or friends finding out, and the belief that police and other officials may be blaming or disbelieving. Sometimes victims are not sure if what happened to them was rape.

When does No mean No?
At any point along the continuum of physical contact between two people when one person says "No" by law the other person is obliged to stop the physical contact. No always means NO.

Is date rape or acquaintance rape really rape?
Yes. In college settings, 80-97% of the perpetrators are someone the victim knows. 9 in 10 offenders are a boyfriend, ex-boyfriend, classmate, friend or an acquaintance of the victim. If one of the participants in intimate physical contact is unwilling to continue that contact (see What Is Rape above) and such contact continues and/or progresses it is likely that sexual assault is taking place. This situation can occur in the context of a date, or when friends and acquaintances get together. Add alcohol and/or other substances to such a setting and it's easy to have miscommunication and unwanted sex.

Why do people rape other people?
Rape is often about one person getting to have what they want from another person by force. It is an act of power, control and domination which is gained through sexual activity. The thoughts, feelings, statements and needs of the other person are of little or no importance to the rapist.

What are some of the common feelings after being raped?
Isolation, shame and humiliation, self-blame, fear, feeling unable to do normal daily things and dread of seeing the perpetrator(s).

Is this my fault?
No. No matter what you did or did not do this was not your fault. Your experience is one that requires understanding and support. We believe counseling from a highly qualified therapist can help you in your recovery from this experience. We hope you will call Porchlight Counseling Services and come talk to us.