Ending Sexual Violence

Sexual violence is any unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature and can happen to anyone, at any time and in any setting. It can be a physical assault, rape or a sexual act committed without consent. Sexual violence can cause serious, long term harm including physical and mental health problems, relationship difficulties and depression. People who are living with disability, poverty or other challenges are at increased risk of sexual violence. Women, girls and gender-diverse people experience sexual violence more often than others.

Survivors of sexual violence experience many emotional responses including feelings of shame and guilt. They may find it difficult to express their emotions and are likely to be blaming themselves for the attack. This is particularly common for survivors who are abused by someone close to them. They may feel they should have known better or could have prevented the abuse from happening. They can also blame themselves for being weak or too sensitive or for attracting the attacker in the first place. They may have difficulty trusting other people or finding a new partner. Some survivors develop eating disturbances, sleep disturbances and physical symptoms related to the areas of their body that were assaulted. Survivors have also been known to engage in self-injury as a way of feeling more alive and experiencing intense physical sensations.

It is important to remember that the perpetrator is responsible for sexual violence. Perpetrators are motivated by a range of factors such as the desire to dominate, control and humiliate their victims, sexual fantasies and a sense of entitlement. They are likely to use alcohol and other drugs to de-sensitize them and increase their aggression. Gender-based stereotypes in society which focus on the inequality of men and women can further encourage perpetrators to treat females as inferior.

In patriarchal cultures, any resistance by a woman victim to the actions of a man can be perceived as an insult to his ‘manhood’ prompting him to further impose his will. Similarly, the sexual exploitation of children can be motivated by parental pressure or an adolescent’s desire to please their peers. It is vital to educate children about sexual consent and sex education so they are not vulnerable to being victimized.

Everyone can play a role in ending sexual violence. Educate yourself and others about sexual violence and the impacts it can have on victims, especially the impact on their mental and physical health. Challenge images of sexual violence in advertising, pornography and professional wrestling and speak out against sexist language and attitudes. Support the work of organisations that are working to end sexual violence by volunteering, donating and lobbying politicians. Sexual violence affects everyone, regardless of age, gender, culture or religion, but it is important to recognise that some groups are at greater risk. It is important to recognise that it is never acceptable for a person to be subjected to sexual violence or assault, no matter how the abuse is justified.