Two studies examined the effects of variations of intent, outcome and pain in depictions of rape on the perceptions and punishment of rape. Numerous sex differences in perceptions were found. Females perceived more pain and tended to focus on the effects of outcome while males tended to respond more to the intent variation. Females assigned more guilt and punishment than did males, particularly when the rape was planned. In addition, contrary to findings in moral judgment literature, males punished intentional rapes less than unintentional rapes. The implications of these results for the criminal justice system are considered. (Author)