Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is a major public health concern that has both short- and long-term consequences to the survivor and society. Sexual abuse includes any unwanted sexual activity that occurs through force, coercion, threats, and/or sexually exploitation of those who are incapable of giving consent (e.g., intoxication, underage). Examples of sexual abuse include rape, incest, child sexual abuse, sexual harassment, drug-facilitated sexual trauma, military sexual trauma, inappropriate sexual touching or fondling, voyeurism, and stalking. This entry details the incidence, risk and protective factors, effects, and costs associated with sexual abuse, as well as prevention and treatment strategies.

Incidence of Sexual Abuse

Approximately one in five U.S. women report having been raped (i.e., completed forced penetration, attempted forced penetration, and drug/alcohol-facilitated completed penetration) at some point in their lives. ...

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