Social Taboos: Rape

What is rape?

Rape is a very serious crime. Though the exact definition of rape varies from country to country, it is generally defined as forced penetration. In Islam rape is completely haraam - forbidden - considered worse than murder and severely punishable.

What is the difference between rape and sexual assault?

Sexual assault has a more broad definition that includes any unwelcome sexual contact, either direct or through clothing, which is committed by threat, force, or without the consent of the other person. Islamically in cases of rape and sexual assault no blame is ever placed on the victim. As Muslims modesty is the key to preventing physical contact with the opposite sex but this is never a reason to accuse victims of 'inviting' the danger.

What role do alcohol and drugs play in rapes?

About one third of all rapes are committed by individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and that number is much higher for inappropriate sexual exchanges on college campuses. Do not be under the illusion that Muslims never drink or use drugs, they should not but many do. All courts of law hold perpetrators fully responsible for their sexual misconduct, even if they were drinking or on drugs at the time of the incident. If a victim was under the influence, courts of law usually consider that individual incapable of giving sexual consent. Thus even if the victim did not fight back, their assertion of rape is typically considered valid, as their drug or alcohol usage may have prevented them from responding as they would have while sober.

What are some of its effects on a victim?

Rape victims often experience severe and long-lasting distress beyond the experience of the rape itself. About 90% of victims report physical injury. Victims belonging to a faith group are outcasted, reported to receive more community abuse and spiritually void and suicidal. Other common after-effects include pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and psychological trauma.

How prevalent are rapes and sexual assaults?

Rape is the most common serious offense against women, but an estimated 84% of rapes go unreported. It is always a difficult but courageous testimony to report being assaulted. Every academic year, over 3% of college women report a rape or rape attempt, but that percentage is likely just a fraction of the actual number. Within certain cultural communities sexual assaults can be a norm or committed with social approval therefore reporting them can take longer.

Who are the victims of rape?

Though approximately 87% of rape victims are women, men can also be victims of rape. Over the last couple of decades, statistics state more incidents of child abuse have been reported (minors, under the age of 13). Generally, women working with large groups of men, young girls at parties and social events and children in care are more vulnerable. A woman who is attacked has not only the attack to live with, but adjusting to normal life. A whole family can become victimised.

Who are the perpetrators?

More often than not, the victims know their rapists. Only 30% of rapes are carried out by strangers. In the US the average age of arrested rapists is 31; approximately 52% are white and 22% of imprisoned rapists are married. Case studies show that rapists befriend their victims and in most cases act on a planned out attack. Perpetrators who are related to the victim also tend to play games of friendship or care to plan a attack.

Where do most rapes occur?

Contrary to popular belief, most rapes do not occur in a dark alley. 6 in 10 incidents take place in the home of the victim, a friend, or a relative or workplace. Only a small percentage of attacks involve the use of a weapon, with most rapists relying on physical force to control the victim. Threats on life and family are also exploited to control the victim.