What to Do If You Have Been the Victim of Sexual Violence
In addition to physical and emotional damage, sexual violence can cause profound psychological effects. Victims of sexual violence may experience problems with concentration and sleep, as well as intrusive memories and thoughts. They may have low self-esteem, or simply feel dirty and unworthy. Their lifestyles and diet may be altered to cope with their trauma. Although these effects can be extremely distressing, they do not have to remain inactive if they seek help.
If you have witnessed sexual assault, there are several things you can do to help. If you are in danger, call emergency services on 000 and make sure you get to a safe place immediately. Although it may be hard to talk about your experience, it is important to seek support from a professional. You can call organisations like the Center for Family Justice, which offer information on seeking help. If you are not sure whether or not you should report the sexual assault, it is important to take a supportive person with you to the police station. If you have no one with you to accompany you, write down the details of the assault and describe it to someone who can help you.
Regardless of age or gender, sexual violence can happen to anyone at any time. The law is clear that a person who engages in sexual activity without the consent of a victim is guilty of a crime. Sadly, there are many myths surrounding sexual violence, which may leave victims feeling ashamed and guilty about their experiences. The truth is that sexual violence is a very real and very dangerous form of abuse. For the most part, it’s 100% the fault of the perpetrator. But don’t forget that it does not necessarily have to involve a visible injury or weapons.
Although a person can be unconscious and refuse to have sex, it is still a crime. A person cannot legally consent to having sex if they are underage. Likewise, someone with cognitive disabilities may not be able to consent. As such, it is important to seek legal help and support if you suspect that someone has committed a crime. If you’re unsure about whether you are a victim of sexual violence, contact a lawyer immediately.
The law requires victims to report the act to the police if it involves a stranger. If an abuser has no intention of reporting it, he/she is unlikely to be arrested. The perpetrator of sexual violence is a person with whom the victim has had a previous relationship. In addition, the abuser has inflated power and authority because the victim has resisted. In New Delhi, a case of rape occurred in December 2012.
A societal definition of sexual violence is essential for monitoring the prevalence of the problem and its consequences. Having an adequate definition enables researchers to measure risk factors uniformly and inform intervention and prevention efforts. Many forms of sexual violence are used for different purposes, including torture and extracting information. Ultimately, sexual violence has the potential to degrade, humiliate, and intimidate victims. The consequences of sexual violence cannot be overlooked. And in addition to the physical and psychological trauma, these acts are often caused by societal norms and beliefs.