Definition of rape
QUESTION:
WomanIs it rape when a male friend pulls you down and starts kissing you and telling him to stop it but he won't and pulls down your pants and you try to pull it back up and he pulls it back down and tell him "no I don't want to", and he shoves his thing inside of you a couple of times and I get up and leave, but he doesn't come after you, he just lets you go?
ANSWER:
Susan Maroto,
Yes, you were raped, and I am so sorry you had to go through that. Please tell someone you trust, right away. It is important that you talk to someone about your experience. Tell a parent, teacher, friend, or call a rape crisis center (look in the blue pages of the phone book, or call directory assistance, or call a local hospital and ask for the number of a rape crisis center near you). You can also call the National Crisis Hotline at 1 800 784 2433 from within the United States and ask to be directed to a rape center. Many, many women are raped, and you will heal from the experience with time and the support of those around you. You need to get help though, so that you are able to go on and experience positive and healthy relationships and sexual experiences that you CHOOSE to participate in the future. There are many support groups for women who have been raped or sexual abused, and it can be very helpful to talk with other women who have had similar experiences. Although it is probably overwhelming to think about it now, you will also need to decide whether or not you wish to press charges. There is no guarantee that this person won't rape others as he did you.
Please follow through and get help.
Sincerely,
Susan Maroto
This question has been answered by Susan Maroto. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working out of Mount Laurel, New Jersey. She uses an eclectic approach to holistic healing, mind-body relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety.For more information visit: http://www.therapywithsusan.com/