sexual assault
Sexual violence is any unwanted sexual contact. It occurs anytime a person is forced, coerced or manipulated into a sexual act.
Sexual assault occurs when a victim does not or is unable to give consent to sexual activity. Examples of the inability to give consent include unconsciousness, impairment due to drug or alcohol use, and being a minor child.
Sexual Assault
Prevention
Preventing sexual violence is everyone's responsibility.
"Sexual violence affects everyone: individuals, families, communities, and the larger society. While some forms of sexual violence (such as sexist and sexually violent jokes, comments about someone’s appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity, catcalling, sexually explicit comments, and vulgar gestures) might not be illegal, this does not make them less threatening or harmful to the person victimized. All of these behaviors contribute to a culture that accepts sexual violence. Bystanders can speak up when they witness these actions in order to promote safety, respectful relationships, and safer communities. Sexual violence can be prevented."
- Engaging Bystanders to Prevent Sexual Violence, National Sexual Violence Resource Center
Additional Resources about Sexual Assault
Power and Control Wheel: Abuse of Children
Click the image below to view a PDF version of the Abuse of Children Power and Control Wheel.
Child Sexual Abuse
Warning Signs of Child Sexual Abuse
Warning signs of child sexual abuse may manifest physically or behaviorally. Below, please review the list of signs of child sexual abuse.
If you believe a child is being abused in Pennsylvania, please call law enforcement and make a report to Childline at 1-800-932-0313.
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Physical Signs of Child Sexual Abuse:
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Injuries to genital area;
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Pain or itching in genital area;
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Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD);
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Bloody or stained underwear;
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Persistent yeast or urinary tract infections;
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Pregnancy
Behavioral Signs of Child Sexual Abuse:
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Child reports sexual abuse;
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Child exhibits inappropriate sexual knowledge or behaviors.
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Nightmares;
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Bed-wetting;
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Avoids certain rooms or areas of the home;
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Avoids physical contact;
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Protective of siblings;
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Eating Disorders;
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Depression;
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Withdrawal;
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Self-Harming behaviors or suicide attempts.
Additional Resources about Child Sexual Abuse
