Sexual Coercion

Sexual coercion is typically defined as the use of verbal pressure or manipulation to have nonconsensual sexual intercourse. It is considered a component or tactic of sexual victimization. Sexual victimization is often referred to as gender-based violence and has historically been conceptualized as a tactic to exert power over women. Thus, sexual coercion is also considered a form of gender-based violence. This entry briefly introduces sexual coercion as it relates to gender-based violence and summaries of victimization and perpetration. The entry concludes with a discussion of the psychological consequences of sexual coercion for victims.