What is Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse is a broad term that includes everything from sexual assault, intimate partner sexual abuse, drug-facilitated sexual assault, to verbal harrasment.
The laws of sexual abuse vary from state to state, but if you think something is wrong or you have experienced any type of sexual abuse, it is important for you to find the resources needed to recognize, act on, and overcome the trauma of the abuse.
It is Not Your Fault
Types of Sexual Abuse
Sexual Assault
8 out of 10 cases of sexual assault are committed by people the victim knows. Unwanted touching, attempted rape, forced participation in sexual acts, and unwanted penetration (rape) are all forms of sexual assault. This can happen as a blitz (sudden attack by a perpetrator with no prior contact), as a home invasion, or (most commonly) through contact where the perpetrator uses coersion or flirting to attract a person to a place where assault will occur. For climbers, remote areas and national parks are a common place for perpetrators to lure their victims through coersion and flirtation.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment includes unwanted advances, requests for sexual favors, unwanted touching, or any other verbal or physical harassment of sexual nature. This can take place in gym settings, in the workplace, or at your local crag.
Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assault
Alcohol is the most common drug used in drug-facilitated sexual assault. This type of assault occurs either when a perpetrator takes advantage of somebody’s voluntary drug use or by administering drugs without the victims knowledge or consent, like roofies.
What to Do if You Experience Sexual Assault
If you have experienced sexual assault of any kind, there are many resources available.
Below is a 24-hour national hotline you can call from anywhere in the country to access someone who can connect you to the help you need.
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