Legal Definitions - relationship rape

Relationship rape is a type of rape that occurs when someone with whom the victim has had a significant association, often of a romantic nature, forces them to engage in sexual activity without their consent. This can happen in any type of relationship, including family, friends, dates, cohabitants, and spouses, in which the victim has had more than brief or perfunctory interaction with the other person.

For example, if a woman's boyfriend forces her to have sex with him against her will, it would be considered relationship rape. Another example would be if a husband forces his wife to engage in sexual activity without her consent.

It's important to understand that any sexual activity without consent is rape, regardless of the relationship between the victim and perpetrator. Relationship rape is a serious crime and can have long-lasting effects on the victim's physical and emotional well-being.