Sexual Violence Prevention

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month!

During the month of April, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) is observing Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Throughout the month, the NSVRC will provide support for awareness activities at the local level. For more information or for helpful tips and resources to conduct a sexual assault awareness event in your community, visit http://www.nsvrc.org/saam.

What is sexual violence?

Sexual violence is a sex act completed or attempted against a person's will or against a person unable to consent because of age-appropriate cognitive ability, illness, disability, or the influence of alcohol or other drugs. It may involve actual or threatened physical force, use of guns or other weapons, coercion, intimidation, or pressure. Other forms of sexual exploitation include voyeurism, pornography, sexual harassment, and online solicitation for sex.

Who are the victims of sexual violence?

Each year, approximately 1% of children are victims of sexual violence; by the time they are 18 years old, 12% to 25% of girls and 8% to 10% of boys will have experienced sexual violence. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 9% of high school students and 20% to 25% of young women in college are victims of sexual assault.

Sexual abuse during childhood has been associated with self-mutilating behaviors, mood and anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, illicit drug use, teen pregnancy, increased risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, and chronic pain syndromes. Like victims, adolescent perpetrators may engage in other health risky behaviors such as delinquent activities, running away, and association with peers who have been in trouble with the law.

What can families do to help protect children from sexual violence?

Parents can help keep their children safe from all kinds of violence by talking openly and comfortably with them about all topics, including those that may be difficult to discuss. Children need to know that their parents will listen, believe them, and protect them if they are worried or if someone makes them uncomfortable. Ask your child's pediatrician for tips on how to keep your child safe.

In addition, families should be aware that perpetrators of sexual violence usually are not strangers; they are often people we know in our neighborhoods, schools, community groups, and even families. For a map showing known and registered sexual offenders in your area, visit http://www.12.familywatchdog.us.