What is rape and what is sexual assault?
Rape can be broadly defined as forced sexual intercourse and is inclusive of a wide variety of behavior. Sexual assault is unwanted sexual contact short of rape, including touching or fondling. The definitions of rape and sexual assault apply equally to anyone who inflicts these crimes, including spouses or significant others. It is not necessary for the perpetrator of rape or sexual assault to be a stranger. In fact, 73% of rape victims know their assailant.