SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH HIGHLIGHTS PREVALENCE

            April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month, designed to promote awareness of the prevalence of sexual assault, encourage reporting of these crimes, and help victims realize that support and counseling are available.
            “Nearly 40 percent of females are victims of attempted or completed rape during their lifetimes, yet rape remains the most underreported violent crime, with only 16 percent of rape survivors reporting the crime to police,” said Julie Young, deputy commissioner for domestic violence/sexual assault services at the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

Although rape is the most common form of sexual assault, the definition of sexual assault encompasses a range of sexual offenses, including attempted and statutory rape, incest, sodomy, molestation, sexual battery and any type of sexual behavior involving children.  ODMHSAS provides sexual assault counseling and other support services to adults and children. Through the department, victims can access a number of services such as counseling and support; a sexual assault response team comprised of nurses, advocates, law enforcement and prosecutors; and advocates that will ensure victims receive emotional support and clothing during the medical examination phase, as clothing is often kept as evidence.

            Young said one of the myths associated with sexual assault is that the perpetrator is usually unknown to the victim.

            “Many people think of rape offenders as strangers, but in most cases, the offender is an acquaintance, date, friend, intimate partner or relative,” Young added. “This particular crime affects all segments of society – from children and teenagers to married couples and partners. Men can be victims, as well.”

            College women are in the age group at highest risk for rape, Young said, with one in 36 college women a victim of rape or attempted rape each year. Alcohol and illicit drug use are often associated with rapes at the high school and college level, she said.

            Reporting sexual assault to law enforcement is one of the most important things a victim can do, she added. “Taking this step can help victims regain the power and control taken from them during the assault, as rape is primarily a crime of violence, motivated by anger or the need for control and power.”

Also, reporting the crime may prevent the assaulter from harming others.

 “Perpetrators typically don’t stop at one victim,” Young said.

Victims of sexual assault who need support or counseling services can call the ODMHSAS “Safeline,” which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The number is 1-800-522-7233.

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