Definition of Rape and Sexual Violence

Looking at these circumstances, if we are to get to the root of the problem, then we have to be able to define the problems. I see "rape" as any act of unwanted sexual intercourse, and it can occur to either gender. Sexual violence I think can be seen as any act of aggression toward someone else that violates someone else's sexual space.

But what do the experts say? Let's take a look:

Rape: "the unlawful compelling of a woman through physical force or duress to have sexual intercourse."

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/rape

Sexual Violence/Assault- Conduct of a sexual or indecent nature toward another person that is accompanied by actual or threatened physical force or that induces fear, shame, or mental suffering.

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Sexual%20Assault

There are several varying definitions of the word that I picked up through google's search engine as well. Located in this bunch of definitions, it defined and discussed several different forms and varying perceptions on rape.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=define%3Arape&btnG=Google+Search&aq=f&oq=

For information regarding Maryland's laws, check out this website:

http://www.mcasa.org/index.php?page=maryland-laws

http://www.mcasa.org/index.php?page=md-law-rape-chart

As well as some federal laws:

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/casecode/uscodes/18/parts/i/chapters/109a/toc.html

A lot of information is out there, and there are varying perceptions of rape and its many forms. But one thing is for sure; it is something that needs our and others' attention.