Tricks used by abusersSexual violence is the term used to describe any unwanted sexual attention and can be verbal or non-verbal, for example sexually harassing via email or test messages.
Perpetrators of sexual violence misuse their power to scare the young person (intimidate) or put pressure on them (coerce) to gain control. They may also use physical force, violence and threats.
Ninety-seven per cent of perpetrators of sexual violence are male.
On this page:
Child sexual abuse
Organised abuse
Rape
Ritual abuse
Sexual assault
Sexual harassment
An abuser uses their power over a child or young person to do things that may leave them feeling scared, hurt, confused or uncomfortable. It may be a look, something that is said, or a hug, kiss, or touch that feels intrusive or sexual The abuser may touch or look at the child’s private parts or ask the child to touch or look at his or hers.
The child may be forced to look at pornographic photos, magazines or films or they may be involved in producing pornographic material (exploitation through pornography). They may have to watch the abuser having sexual contact with another adult or child.
They may be forced to provide sexual favours for the abuser’s friends and relatives, or have sex with others in exchange for money, gifts or drugs (exploitation through prostitution).
Sex against your will involving penetration of the vagina, mouth or anus using the penis. Many young women are pressurised into having sex when they don’t want to - this is still rape.
Any sexual touch that is done without consent, from unwelcome groping to some kinds of penetration.
. . . includes a number of different kinds of behaviours that can be frightening, intimidating and intrusive, including requests for sexual favours, leers, physical contact, sexual remarks, sexual comments and remarks about a person’s body.
. . . involves multiple perpetrators organised in a group that uses torture and religious beliefs and practices to control and silence multiple victims. Members of the group often abuse children they are in contact with on an individual basis as well as taking part in ‘ritual abuse ceremonies’.
. . . often known as paedophilia rings - usually produces pornography as part of the abuse.
Myth: The young woman had been binge drinking
Truth: A man needs to be sure that a woman has the freedom and is in a fit state to make a choice about whether she consents to any sexual activity with him.
If a young woman is under the influence of alcohol or drugs and is unable to make a free choice, it does not give him the right to take advantage of her sexually. If a man coerces, persuades, intimidates or pressurises a woman into having sex with him, then it is still rape.
