Only 8 percent of acquaintance rape victims ever report the assault to the police, and as many as 50 percent of acquaintance rape victims never tell anyone about the assault. Even so, the crime of acquaintance rape has significant consequences for victims who often experience anxiety, depression, relationship and sexual difficulties, physical symptoms, and increased medical utilization. Societal factors, situational factors, and legal system characteristics surround the acquaintance rape issue and contribute to continuation of the crime. Societal factors represent the initial impetus for acquaintance rape, and such factors include gender inequality and the acceptance of rape myths. Situational variables concern the victim's vantage point, the offender's vantage point, and sexual miscommunication. Postassault factors encompass self-blame by rape victims and the internalization of societal attitudes. The process of reporting rape to authorities is described, with emphasis on obtaining support services. The significant role of legal and mental health professionals in preventing female victimization is considered. Barriers to and components of effective treatment are noted, and treatment approaches are described. Because acquaintance rape is viewed as a complex problem perpetuated in part by societal factors that continue to degrade women, the authors believe appropriate education and awareness programs are needed to prevent rape. 94 references