Sexual and Domestic Violence

CONTENT WARNING

This page explores the prevalence of sexual and domestic violence in the United States. Many people find it difficult and challenging to think about interpersonal violence. If you are feeling upset or overwhelmed, your feelings are valid. There are national and local resources available to support you.

Speak to an advocate by calling one of the 24/7 support lines listed below or clicking on the name of the organization to chat.

THE NATIONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT HOTLINE
800-656-4673

THE NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE
800-799-7233

THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE
800-273-8255

PLEASE NOTE:
Anyone can be a victim / survivor - or a perpetrator- of sexual or domestic violence, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual-orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, educational attainment, socio-economic status, (dis)ability, political affiliation, immigration status, occupation, or geographic location.

sexual violence

Sexual violence is a term that refers to sexual assault, rape, sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, incest, and unwanted physical contact of a sexual nature. Sexual violence means that someone coerces, forces, or manipulates someone into unwanted sexual activity without consent. Any sexual act without consent should be categorized as sexual violence.

Consent is an understandable exchange of words and actions by all parties, which indicate a willingness to engage in sexual activity. Consent must be freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic, and specific; it is the responsibility of the person initiating sexual activity to obtain affirmative consent throughout sexual involvement. Power dynamics are a factor in consent, as well.

For a lighthearted exploration of the dynamics of consent, watch the Consent is like Tea video.

before their 18th birthday,

1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused.

1 in 4 girls will be sexually abused.

while undergraduate students in college,

of women experience rape or sexual assault.

of men experience rape or sexual assault.

of trans / gender non-conforming students experience sexual assault.

of survivors on college campuses do not report their assault.

in THEIR lifetime,

1 in 73 men will be raped.

1 in 6 men will experience some form of sexual violence.

1 in 5 women will be raped.

1 in 3 women will experience some form of sexual violence.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors used by one person to gain power or control over another person (or people) in a relationship. Controlling behaviors do not start on a first date; unhealthy relationships often appear perfect at the start and progress quickly. Violence typically escalates over time, and falls into many of the categories below: