(Posted 2025 April)
Anyone can be a victim of sexual violence, an umbrella term that includes any type of unwanted sexual contact--and people who commit sexual abuse, assault, and harassment exist in all of our communities. That’s why it's important for all of us to care about sexual violence and take appropriate steps to raise awareness about the issue. That includes using survivor-centered language to help create a culture where people feel heard, justice is more attainable, and myths about assault are deconstructed.
Sexual violence terms to know include:
Consent. This means agreeing to do something. In terms of sexual activities, consent means both people clearly agree to take part in the activity. If someone is pressured, scared, or unable to say no (like if they're drunk or asleep), they can't give consent.
Molestation. This usually refers to inappropriate touching of someone, especially a child, in a sexual way. It's illegal and harmful.
Rape. This is a very serious form of sexual assault where someone forces another person to have sex without their permission. It's a crime and can have long-lasting effects on the victim.
Sexual act. Contact between genitals involving penetration, no matter how slight.
Sexual abuse. Knowingly causing another person to engage in a sex act using threats or fear, or if someone engages in a sexual act with a person incapable of appraising the nature of the act or unable to give consent.
Sexual assault. This is when someone forces or tries to force another person to take part in sexual activities without their consent. This can include touching private parts, kissing, or more serious acts like rape. State laws vary in the definitions used for sexual assault.
Sexual harassment. Unwelcome and inappropriate comments, gestures, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature. If someone makes rude jokes about someone else’s body or sends unwanted messages, that's sexual harassment.
Sexual misconduct. This is a broad term encompassing any unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature committed without consent or by force, intimidation, coercion, or manipulation. Sexual misconduct can be committed by a person of any gender, and it can occur between people of the same or different gender. This terminology is usually used by institutions of higher education.
If you or someone you know is experiencing interpersonal violence, call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 for resources and support. If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
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