The Effects Of Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is a violation of a person’s body, sexuality, and sense of self and safety. The effects of sexual assault can last a lifetime, rippling out to family members, school and work, communities and down through generations. Sexual assault is part of a range of behaviors that offenders use to take power from their victims. It can begin with words, gestures, jokes and intimidation. It can then progress to force, threats and actions that involve sexual touching or intercourse, and may involve other forms of violence. I learned from Haven that sexual and relationship violence can impact anyone. It does not matter what your age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status might be. Even if one is not directly affected