There are different types of sexual violence intended to control, manipulate, and violate the autonomy of an individual. Unfortunately, this type of violence affects individuals of all genders, ages, and backgrounds.
One of the worst parts about this experience is the profound pain and confusion. Most survivors find themselves grappling with what to do next and how to handle the aftermath. In fact, some even question whether what they experienced qualifies as an act of domestic violence.
Below, we provide information about the various types of sexual violence and how to seek help in your time of need. If you are a victim, contact our trusted professionals at WGS Law. We are here to listen, believe you, and help you seek justice.
7 Types of Sexual Violence
Below, we have described 7 common types of sexual violence:
1. Rape
Rape is among the most recognized forms of sexual violence. It includes non-consensual penetration, whether vaginal, anal, or oral, using any body part or object. And in these cases, lack of consent means saying “no,” showing uncertainty or distress, being incapacitated, manipulated, coerced, or being underage.
2. Sexual Assault
Sexual assault involves physical contact between the perpetrator and the victim. It encompasses a wide range of acts such as kissing, touching any body part, pressing up against another person, and even touching someone’s clothes in a sexual manner.
3. Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment can be defined as unwelcome behaviors that do not necessarily involve physical contact. This is a form of unlawful discrimination and can include sexual comments, gestures, staring, suggestive looks, sexual “jokes,” intrusive questions, or spreading sexual rumors.
4. Spiking
Spiking is the act of adding drugs (such as Rohypnol or Ecstasy) or alcohol to someone’s drink without their consent. It’s usually done to make the victim vulnerable to exploitation, sexual assault, rape, or other forms of harm.
5. Indecent Exposure
Indecent exposure, more commonly known as flashing, is the act of exposing one’s genitals to make the other person feel coerced or violated. It can happen for only a few seconds or an extended duration, but regardless of the time frame, exposure is always considered a crime.
6. Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse involves sexual violence that happens to any person under the age of 18. It can include both activities with physical contact such as rape, fondling, or kissing, and activities without physical contact, such as taking sexual photos or suggestive looks and flirtation.
7. Female Genital Mutilation
Female genital mutilation refers to procedures that involve removing external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. This is an illegal practice often carried out on girls aged between infancy to 15 years old.
Call for Help
Sexual violence in any form is never acceptable, even if it occurs within the confines of marriage. If you or a loved one is experiencing this kind of situation, please know that you are not alone. Contact the National Sexual Violence Resource Center if you are in need of immediate assistance.
Our trusted team at WGS Law can also provide you with the necessary legal support. We are here to help you seek justice and advocate for your rights.
