The Uniqueness of Rape: Reporting Assaultive Violence to the Police

Is rape unique in terms of the factors that determine whether or not women will report it to the police? Or, is rape similar to other forms of assaultive violence? This research answers these questions by employing the National Crime Survey to develop models for the reporting of rape and assaults on women and men to the police. Logistic equations predicting reports to the police are developed for each type of offense. The analysis shows that unique factors determine the reporting of a rape. Additionally, the difference between reporting rape and reporting assault cannot be totally accounted for by the sex of the victim or offender. This suggests that separate explanations of rape and assault victimization are necessary. The findings in this analysis could be used to develop a policy that would increase victims' reporting of rape and assault to the police.