Sexual assault - meaning and definition
Alsosexual violencesexual abusesexual attack
Definition
Sexual assault is any sexual act or contact carried out without a person's consent. Legal definitions and categories differ between countries.
At a glance
- Any sexual act or contact carried out without consent.
- It is most often committed by someone the survivor knows.
- Nothing a survivor wore, drank, said or did makes it their fault.
- Freezing or staying silent does not mean it was consensual.
- Support is available whether or not someone reports to police.
In detail
Sexual assault covers a wide range of acts, from unwanted touching to rape. It can be committed by strangers, but it is most often committed by someone the survivor knows, including partners, friends, family members or colleagues.
Nothing a survivor wore, drank, said or did makes an assault their fault. Responses such as freezing, staying silent or keeping in contact with the person afterwards are common and do not mean it was consensual.
Support is available whether or not someone wants to report to police. Sexual assault referral centres, rape crisis organisations, sexual health clinics and emergency services can offer medical care, emotional support and information about options.
In a sentence
- The helpline supports anyone affected by sexual assault, however long ago it happened.
- She learned that sexual assault is most often committed by someone the survivor knows.
Not to be confused with
- Sexual harassment
Harassment can include non-physical behaviour such as comments and messages.
Common questions
Is it still sexual assault if I knew the person?
Yes. Most sexual assaults are committed by someone the survivor knows, including partners, friends, family members or colleagues. Knowing the person does not make it consensual.
Where can I get help after a sexual assault?
A sexual assault referral centre, rape crisis centre, sexual health clinic or emergency department can offer medical care, emotional support and information about options. You do not have to decide about reporting to police to get help. If you are in danger, call your local emergency number.