Aquaintance/Date Rape
In Heterosexual Dating Relationships
For Men
Women are not the only survivors of date rape. Although it is uncommon for a woman to sexually assault a man, it does happen. You have the right to say "no," and to set limits regarding sexual experience. If you have been sexually assaulted, it is important that you talk to someone who can support you in recovering from this traumatic experience. Sometimes men who have been raped, either by a date or a stranger, feel too ashamed to tell anyone or a male survivor may feel like less of a man because he was victimized. You are not at fault and you are not less of a man because of the actions of another. There are people and services available that can help you to cope.
However, there is a reason why most sexual assault perpetrators are men. Men are frequently encouraged to pursue behaviors that can lead to sexual assault. Men are pressured to take the lead sexually even if that means being aggressive and forceful. It is important to understand the meaning of coercion and that seemingly socially acceptable behaviors actually constitute coercion.
