Sexual Assault and Rape
Sexual assault occurs any time a person is forced, coerced, and/or manipulated into unwanted sexual contact or behavior without explicit consent, whether attempted or completed. Sexual assault is not just physical.
Rape is included under the umbrella of “sexual assault” but specifically involves unwanted or forced penetration by body part or object. Rape and sexual assault are never the victim’s fault — no matter where or how they happen.
Common Reactions during a Sexual Assault
- Freezing: Feeling unable to think, move, or speak
- Yielding: “Giving in” or pretending to cooperate
- Bargaining: Trying to cut a deal during the assault
- Physical Fighting: Anything you did to survive
- Terror and Disbelief: Extreme fear, helplessness, hopelessness
- Sexual Response: The human body is designed to respond to touch, so if you experienced a sexual response, this is normal.
REMEMBER – IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT!
Rape is a Crime of Power and Control
All sexual assault is an act of power and aggression, regardless of the gender or age of the victim or the assailant. Neither sexual desire nor sexual deprivation is the primary motivating force behind sexual assault. It is not about sexual gratification, but rather a sexual aggressor using somebody else as a means of expressing their own power and control.
Source:
RAINN – Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network
Rapists look for vulnerability and opportunity, not sexual appeal. In Utah, the oldest reported victim is 95 years old. The youngest reported victim was 3 days old.
Sexual Assault Statistics
Over 80% of sexual assault cases were perpetrated by known assailants. (www.UCASA.org)
Sexual assault and abuse is any type of sexual activity that you do not consent to. View the fact sheet by Women’s Health.
Statistics from Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN.org).