rape

when writing about rape, you may first need to research current statistics as well as the definition and language used in your area (each state has its own laws, and there's no uniform legal definition at the state level; in addition, instead of the term "rape" many states call it sexual assault, criminal sexual conduct, sexual abuse, sexual battery, etc.). Cautions: (1) Be aware of and avoid myths about rape, e.g., that no one can be raped against their will, that women invite rape by their behavior or clothing, that only women are raped, that black men rape white women when it is more often the other way around, etc. (2) Use your words to put responsibility where it belongs by avoiding the passive voice ("she was raped," "women are raped") when the active voice is needed ("he raped her," "men rape women"). (3) Avoid using rape as a metaphor (e.g., "gate rape" is the targeting of flight crew members by TSA); it detracts from the true horror and the long-lasting damage of rape. See also acquaintance rape, provoke, rape culture, rape victim, rapist, sexual harassment, she asked for it, victim, violence.