Sexual assault happens everywhere and to women and men of all ages. But it is common on college campuses, and, among adults, sexual abuse happens most often to traditionally college-age women (18–24). Colleges that get federal funding are required to publicly report sexual assault.

•  Only one in five college-age women who are sexually abused report the attack to the police. Talking about sexual assault to strangers can be difficult, but reporting sexual abuse can prevent attackers from hurting others and help you feel more in control. Reporting also helps school officials make arrangements so you do not have to have contact with someone who abused you.
• Peer Pressure. College-age women often live with people their own age on campus, rather than parents or other older adults. Students may feel peer pressure to participate in social activities like drinking, using drugs, going to parities, or engaging in sexual activities that make them uncomfortable. Being forced into unwanted sexual activity for social acceptance is a type of sexual coercion.