Rape

Rape, crime of forced sexual intercourse without the consent of the subject, who may be male or female. Statutory rape refers to sexual intercourse with someone who is under the legal age of consent (age 12–16 in the United States), is mentally defective, or does not comprehend the physical or other consequences of the act. In most societies of the world, rape is considered a serious crime. Rape crisis centers offer counseling for rape victims and encourage them to report the crime to the police. Some psychologists hold that rape is an antisocial act that is only peripherally sexual.

See also: Crime.