Rape is a type of sexual assault involving sexual intercourse, or other forms of sexual penetration, carried out against a person without their consent.

1 in 3 women and 1 in 8 men were raped by an intimate partner, and more than half of both male and female victims were raped by an acquaintance. (Basile et al 2022).

: unlawful sexual activity and usually sexual intercourse carried out forcibly or under threat of injury against a person's will or with a person who is beneath a certain age or in

Dec 17, 2025 · Sexual violence is a significant problem in the United States. Sexual violence has a profound impact on lifelong health, opportunity, and well-being. What is sexual

Mar 27, 2026 · Rape was long considered to be caused by unbridled sexual desire, but it is now understood as a pathological assertion of power over a victim. The legal definition

Apr 9, 2026 · Unsure if you were raped? Learn about consent, legal definitions, and resources for survivors. Find support and guidance on what to do next.

2 days ago · Rape is a crime of power that can be perpetrated against anyone. Learn the definition of rape and the answer to: was I raped?

Sep 27, 2024 · Both rape and sexual assault are defined by the government — and both are illegal. Get the facts on how to identify unwanted sexual contact.

Feb 15, 2021 · Rape is a type of sexual assault that includes sexual penetration, no matter how slight, without consent.

What To Expect When You Contact RAINN Since 1994, RAINN’s victim service programs have helped over 5 million survivors of sexual violence and their loved ones with support and re