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Violence/AbuseSexual AssaultSexual assault is considered to be any unwanted sexual contact or action. It is a crime that may be physical or non-physical and is achieved by force, threats, bribes, manipulation, pressure, or violence. Committed by strangers, and more frequently, family and friends, sexual assault includes rape, attempted rape, child molestation, incest, sexual harassment, voyeurism, and exhibitionism.Research indicates that sexual assault is committed against 1 out of every 3 women, 1 out of every 9 men and 1 out of every 4 children. It is a violent crime where the attacker is full of anger and control. Such attacks may have devastating effects on victims and those who love them. In 1996, less than 1 in 3 rapes and sexual assaults were reported to law enforcement officials. Approximately 68% of rape victims knew their assailant -husbands or boyfriends, 28%; acquaintances, 35%; and relatives, 5%. Most sex crimes go unreported because of fear of retaliation from the attacker, and/or the inability to share publicly such an intensely personal and painful experience. But help is available for victims and their family. Please talk to your health care provider. He or she can help you.
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