Can Women Fight Rape?

In a survey conducted in Seattle, WA, researchers were surprised to learn that more than any other crime; women fear rape over murder. Statistics shows that more than 100,000 rapes are reported every year and many remain unreported. Every six minutes, this terrifying and brutal crime is committed in the United States alone.

The U.S. Justice Department and the National Crime Prevention Council have come up with a report about the myths and facts about rape. According to the report, it is not true that most of the victims of rape are attacked by strangers in high-risk places, the truth is, more than half of the reported cases are committed by someone known to the victim and almost 40 percent in fact take place right at the victim’s house.

It is also false that primarily what triggered the rapist is because of his sexual desire. Psychologists explained that rape is actually about control, not sex alone. What motivates these rapists is their need to dominate women. Sex is the weapon and humiliation is the goal.

The common belief that women contribute a lot to this crime because of the way they dress up themselves is also a myth. Studies show that rape is a crime of opportunity. If the attacker thinks he can get away with it, he will do it the very first time he sees a chance and attack the victim even if she is not dressed seductively. Assailants look for women who can actually be easily intimidated.

The thought that a woman cannot be raped against her will is a dangerous thinking because often they are surprise by an attacker who is much stronger than they are. Absolutely women resist at the first instance. Other than the rape itself, women who are sexually abused suffered physical injuries for 85 percent of all reported rapes forced were extremely used by the attacker.

It is very important to report a crime especially of this nature because rapists will keep on doing it until they are caught. Women who are victims of rape by someone stranger to them are usually the ones who will go to the police and file a report. The sad reality is that women raped by acquaintances are far less likely to go to the police. They would rather keep it to themselves for many reasons like fear, humiliation, civil status, family background, etc.

In order to combat this problem, women need to guard themselves and stay alert in their surroundings. Women should walk with confidence and remain calm. Make it appear that you know exactly where you are going to but if you feel so uncomfortable in a certain place – leave immediately! Appearing uncertain will make a woman candidate for a sexual attack. Do not appear timid in public.

In choosing their victim, rapists also apply some great deal of planning in order to execute the element of surprise. Their game is called rape and escape. So if you are a woman who does not look like men can easily intimidate them that are less chance of being a rape victim.

For women who usually stay home, a good way to meet other women in the neighborhood is to conduct a garage sale. This is also the best chance to develop a security network among you, hold a garage sale to get rid of those junks that could be used as a hiding place by an attacker. Many women were attacked right in their own houses and these assaults happened in the garage, kitchen, bathroom, etc. Even when leaving for a few minutes be sure to keep doors closed and locked.

Pay particular attention to your sliding glass doors. Since many homeowners keep these glasses open, they are an easy point of entry not just for the would-be-rapist but by burglars as well. Install good outside lighting near the back doors, the front and the entrance and exit of the garage. Leave no dark area between the safety of your home and you. Check that all doors and windows are locked before going to bed.

Local police and sheriffs departments encourage homeowners to install a peephole in their front door and always use it before letting anyone in especially during wee hours. For any reason at all – never let any stranger gets into your house even if they need to make an emergency phone call. Ask them to give you the number and make the call for him while they wait outside. During the day, demand for an identification from anyone who represents a utility company. Despite of their ID and you are still in doubt, call the company before letting them in.

During summer months when rapes are more frequent, avoid biking or jogging alone. Always be certain that someone know your everyday routine, the peak danger times are early morning and late at night. When jogging, do not listen to your favorite music on headset for it will make you less alert with the surroundings. If you think someone tries to harass you, go on opposite direction and if he insist, scream for help. You may reply from someone who ask for directions by maintaining a safe distance from him.

When dating someone for the first time, check his background with some friends and make the first date in public place. Carry enough money for a ride back home and do not take too much alcohol drinks. It would be best to state clearly your expectation. In parties, in order not to get the situation out of hand, do not leave with someone you just met that occasion.

The good news though is most men are not rapists. Just draw a line between lust, love and an attempt to rape. Just state your disagreement in an improper advances. Body language is very important, you may send him a message of coldness by simply crossing your arms, straight shoulders and stand firm on the ground.

If you fall a victim, go to a safe place and call someone nearby and ask to call a police. The sooner you report the matter, the bigger chance of apprehending the attacker. Do not shower, douche, bathe or destroy any of the clothing you were wearing during the commission of the crime, it is important to preserve any physical evidence. You may go to a clinic or hospital but make sure that the attending physician, nurse or nurse aid make all notes of the injuries you suffered during the attack.

The consequence of this crime is damaging to woman’s self-image, her emotions, her independence and her sense of safety. Needless to say that many women would feel a shame, anger, guilt and a desire for revenge. As a result they will find it hard to get back to their normal routine. During this time, the family, friends and other loved ones will play a vital role in the recovery process. Understand that the victim would feel the need to change where she would like to live for a while, her work and it may take months or even years before she return to her old usual self.

Reality is that – not only the victim who are damaged by the rape but also her parents, her spouse, her brother or sister, depending on the case. The victim’s loved ones may also suffer physical and emotional problems too. It would be best for everybody to call a trained counselor or somebody from crises center or rape treatment center.

The word “rape” is a powerful word, we may not put an end to this easily but it can be controlled, it can be fought, it can be prevented. The will should triumph!