WHAT IS SEXUAL ABUSE
There are many reactions that survivors of rape and sexual assault — or sexual abuse as a child — can experience. For traumatic events in general, it is important to know there is not one “standard” reaction to the trauma of sexual abuse. Some people respond immediately, while others have delayed reactions — sometimes months or even years later. Some have adverse effects for a long period of time, while others recover rather quickly. Reactions can change over time.
Some who have suffered from trauma find the energy to help others with the challenge of coping, only to later become discouraged or depressed. The impact of sexual abuse and assault will be different for each person and may occur on several levels — physically, emotionally, spiritually, economically and mentally.
WHY DO PEOPLE SEXUALLY ABUSE
People who sexually abuse vary in the reasons they offend, who they offend against and the various sexual behaviors and crimes they commit. Although our understanding of the causes and origins of sexually abusive behavior is still developing, research clearly shows that in many cases sexual abuse is a learned behavior. There are a number of contributing factors, including negative or adverse conditions in early development. In addition, many sex offenders rationalize their sexually abusive behavior, and many have problems with self-regulation and impulse control.
HOW COMMON IS SEXUAL ABUSE
Sexual abuse affects everyone: all ages, all races and ethnicities, in all areas of the country. As many as 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 20 boys experience sexual abuse before age 18. Individuals 18-24 have among the highest rates of sexual abuse. And even individuals later in life may be vulnerable to sexual abuse. Among all ages, the adult, teen or child who is harmed often knows their abuser, which can include family members, intimate partners, fellow residents or care providers. Over their lifetime, nearly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 71 men reported experiencing rape at some time in their lives. Approximately 45% of women and 22% of men reported experiencing sexual violence other than rape, such as being made to penetrate someone else, sexual coercion, unwanted sexual contact or noncontact unwanted sexual experiences, in their lifetime.