Rape and Sexual Assault Prevention

The N.C. Rape and Sexual Assault Prevention Program (RSAP) focuses on the primary prevention of sexual assault, that is, on activities to prevent the problem before it arises. Effective rape prevention has three parts: inhibiting potential perpetrators from perpetrating; educating potential victims to reduce their risk; and addressing the peer group, cultural and community environments that support the problem. The RSAP Program funds rape prevention programs of local rape crisis centers. In addition, in collaboration with the N.C. Council for Women and the N.C. Coalition Against Sexual Assault, the RSAP Program is developing a strategic plan for rape prevention in North Carolina and planning a statewide social marketing campaign designed for adolescent males. Other strategic plan goals include providing training and technical assistance for local rape crisis centers, expanding prevention resources, establishing a data collection system, and promoting policies that prevent rape and sexual assault.