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The Rape Tax

Tangible and Intangible Costs of Sexual Violence

Nancy J. Mezey

Christopher Maxwell

Wilma Novalés Wibert

Michigan State University

This study examines the justice system's decision that sexual violence, particularly rape, is not an economic crime. The authors estimate the tangible and intangible financial costs of sexual violence in Michigan. In 1996, rape and sexual assault cost Michigan more than $6.5 billion, most of which came in the form of intangible costs. Sex-offense homicide cost more than $18 million, two thirds of which was intangible costs. If divided equallyas a "rape tax," each resident of Michigan would have paid nearly $700 in 1996 to cover the cost of sexual violence. The implication is that prevention is the best way to reduce the high cost of sexual violence. Furthermore, rape and sexual assault need to be identified as a public health issue to raise awareness about sexual violence. Finally, courts and prosecutors need to think about sexual violence as an economic crime to better protect victims and survivors of sexual violence.

Journal of Interpersonal Violence, Vol. 17, No. 7, 773-782 (2002)
DOI: 10.1177/0886260502017007005


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