Love shouldn’t hurt-ever

Love Shouldn't Hurt - Ever

Monday, 08 April 2024 11:29

Sexual Assault is More Than Rape
by Teresia Smith

There’s often a misunderstanding that sexual assault is simply another way to describe rape or attempted rape. Sexual abuse is not limited to physical contact. Non-physical forms of sexual abuse are just as harmful and devastating, and often people aren’t quite sure if the behavior they experienced was actually considered assault. By definition, sexual assault is typically any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the recipient. This can be everything from an unwanted touches to sex with your partner after you plainly told them no. But it can also include non-physical abuse such as covert and visual sexual abuse, as well as sexual harassment.

Covert sexual abuse can happen when you are observed, photographed or filmed without your knowledge. With this form of abuse, the perpetrator gets sexual satisfaction from watching the victim, often by hidden cameras or other concealment methods. This used to be referred to as a “peeping Tom”. Also, being exposed to unwanted sexual content is visual sexual abuse. Some examples of visual sexual abuse can include being sent unwanted sexually explicit images, sexting, flashing, and performing sexual acts in the presents of non-consenting people.
Often non-physical sexual harassment occurs in many workplaces. It may involve offensive language and jokes, catcalling or other unwelcome sexual comments, unwanted sexual favor requests, and invasion of privacy by sending images without permission. All of this behavior is inappropriate and should not be tolerated in any workplace.

Knowing how to recognize any sexual assault can help you better protect yourself and identify assault when it occurs. One important thing to remember is that any of these acts, when done without your consent, are considered assault. It doesn’t matter if it’s a stranger, romantic partner, family member or just an acquaintance.

Knowing your resources if you or someone you know experiences sexual assault can make a difference. Crisis Services of North Alabama is one of your local resources. We offer free and confidential services to survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence. You can reach our Jackson County office for an appointment at 256.574.5826. We also offer a 24/7 HELPline, where you can speak with trained crisis counselors at 256.716.1000. Reach out today. You are not alone.