The studies examined factors related to sexual victimization, characteristics suggested to be common to date rapists, situational characteristics associated with date rape, and variables associated with misperceived sexual intent. The analysis revealed that methodological problems hinder definitive conclusions about these factors. These problems include limited use of experimental designs, retrospective self-report data, inadequate control groups, unstandardized measurements and definitions, and analog laboratory designs. The review indicates the need for an increase in the use of experimental designs and longitudinal research strategies, as well as agreement regarding the definition of date rape and the use of standardized measurement tools when examining this issue. 89 references (Author abstract modified)