Some consequences of rape
Consequences for somebody who has pressured someone else into sex
Getting into trouble with the Police. If somebody has sex, or does anything sexual with someone without gaining consent, they are committing a crime. Both rape and sexual assault have the possibility of a prison sentence, with the maximum punishment for rape being life in prison.
Having sex without consent or sexually assaulting another person could lead to their details being put on the Sex Offenders’ register.
Criminal convictions could seriously limit what someone wants to do in the future, such as doing certain jobs, and travelling abroad to certain countries.
Getting a bad reputation. How would you react if you knew somebody was a rapist, or an abuser? Would you want to spend time with them? The social consequences of being labelled an abuser or rapist should not be underestimated and can be severe.
Consequences for the victim
Being raped or sexually assaulted can have a deeply negative and long-lasting impact on people’s emotional, physical and mental health.
Someone who has been raped or sexually assaulted might feel:
- Shocked and upset, or they may struggle to understand what has happened
- Embarrassed, or worried about what people will think
- Guilty – although it’s important to remember that it is never the victim’s fault
- Scared or frightened
They may also develop low self esteem, or a sense of low self worth.
Potential health consequences can include:
- Unwanted pregnancies
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Physical damage or internal injury
- Mental health problems, depression and self-harm.