While most rapes are unreported, the number of cases reported in the U.S. more than doubled between 1970 and 1986. It is not actually known if the number of rapes has increased or if more victims have been willing to come forward. Shame, fear of revenge or rejection, and the trauma of a court trial are common reasons for failure to report a sexual offense. Rape is most often motivated by extreme anger toward the victim or a need to overpower the victim. The motive is rarely sexual and violence is not always involved.
Forced sex is intended to abuse, humiliate, and dehumanize the victim.
Fifty percent of all rapists are under the age of 25 and most rapists average ten rapes before they are caught. Studies indicate that rape occurs most frequently with someone the victim already knows. Drug and alcohol abuse are frequently related to sexual offenses. The effects of rape are both physical and psychological. If you are sexually assaulted, do not wash or douche.