Encyclopedia of Violence, Peace, & Conflict, Second Edition - Sexual Assault

Sexual assault and rape have become recognized as crucial social and scientific issues over the past two decades. This article focuses on adult and adolescent sexual assault among female victims and male perpetrators. Information is drawn from diverse sources, including studies of incarcerated rapists, victims seeking medical and mental healthcare, community samples, and college samples. This article first presents definitions and prevalence rates, then reviews research on personality, attitudinal, behavioral, and situational predictors of sexual assault perpetration and victimization, as well as outcomes of sexual assault experience.