Acquaintance rape, also known as date rape, is more common than you think.
             An estimated one in eight college students are raped by acquaintances every
             year, and about 85% of all rapes are date rapes, not rapes by strangers
             ("Acquaintance Rape"). Because date rape is so common, it is important for
             all women to be aware at all times and to understand the facts about this
             all-too-common form of sexual assault.
             As with all rape, the effects on the victim are psychologically
             profound. Following the incident, the survivor may experience anxiety,
             depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Curtis).
             A survivor of acquaintance rape may experience difficulties
             maintaining intimate relationships, especially those with the opposite sex.
             The victim may not experience pleasure during consensual sex and could
             become withdrawn or act out, becoming sexually promiscuous. However, the
             individual effects of being raped vary considerably from person to person.
             Because the survivor is acquainted with her assailant, the circumstances of
             date rape evoke a unique set of psychological effects. For example, the
             impetus to report the rape may be considerably less had the perpetrator
             been a complete stranger, and the victim may fear social reprisal if she
             reports the incident or discusses it with friends.
             There are ways to prevent date rape. The SAFE website (Sexual Assault
             Facts and Education) lists "trusting your gut" as the first means of
             prevention. Other ways to prevent date rape are to avoid going home with a
             date, because most rapes occur in homes. Not being dependent on the date
             for transportation is also important, as is avoiding alcohol or drugs that
             can impair judgment. Communicating your needs firmly is also a key.
             Even when such precautions are taken, rapes still occur and it is
             important to know what to do and how to seek help. First, never blame
             yourself. N...