Sexual Coercion © Robert J. Atkins, Ph.D.

83% of rape victims are under 25 years old Statutory rape – if victim is under the age of sexual consent (e.g. under 18) and the partner is over the age on consent.

What are the effects of rape? Acute phase  Lasts hours to weeks  Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Nightmares, depression, anxiety

Long term effects of rape Continuing PTSD Fear of retaliation Change addresses Sexual problems  Lack of sexual desire Drug & alcohol abuse Obesity

What is a “date rape” drug? Rohypnol  “Date-rape” drug  Sedative - lasts several hours  Varying degrees of amnesia

Do you remember? What determines statutory rape? What often results from a rape? What are the effects of a “date-rape” drug? What problems might rape survivors develop?

How can I reduce the risk of date rape? Meet in a public place  E.g. for lunch Be independent No drinking Be clear in your expectations Be consistent in the messages you are sending

How can I avoid being raped when attacked? Women who scream, kick and run were more likely to avoid being raped

What should I do after being raped? Best to report even an attempt Do not  Take a shower (eliminates evidence)  Practice your story to make it believable  Try to figure out what you did wrong

How can I help a friend recover from a rape? Listen to her/him Give words of comfort Offer shelter at your home Let her discuss this as often as she wants Do not insist the victim call a rape hotline, or see a counselor

Do you remember? What can you do reduce the risk of rape? What can you do while being attacked to avoid rape? What can you do to help a friend recover from rape? What problems might rape survivors develop?

What is the difference between incest and pedophilia? Brother-sister incest is most common Sexual contact with daughter = incest Sexual contact with daughter’s 10 year old friend = pedophilia

Pedophilia Sex with children

What are pedophiles like? Often conservative (moralistic or religious) Does not relate well to others Poorly informed, with conservative attitudes about sexuality Have problems with alcoholism Sexually victimized during his own childhood

Are “Recovered” memories of childhood accurate? Legitimacy of recovered memories has been supported by several research studies Sometimes, but not always accurate  False “memories” can be created in the research lab ”Repressed memories” may be inadvertently planted by overzealous interviewers.

What types of sexual harassment are there? Two types  Quid pro quo Something for something  Hostile or offensive work environment

Do you remember? What is the difference between incest and pedophilia? What are the characteristics of pedophiles? Are recovered memories from childhood always accurate? What are the two types of sexual harassment?