COLLEGE DATE RAPE - INCIDENCE AND REPORTING

The present survey based on 70% returns (N=140) of a random sample of 200 women at one college indicated that, although 5% had been date rap ed, none reported the rapes to authorities due to feelings of self-bla me and embarrassment. That rapes are not reported perpetuates a self-f ulfilling prophecy that rapes do not occur. A victim of rape may feel she is the only one and may be reluctant to become the exception who r eports. This denial by both college authorities and victims does not e ncourage programs for prevention and treatment.