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What is sexual violence?

Video: Learn about the many forms of sexual violence.

Sexual violence is a broad term

Sexual violence includes behaviours and actions that are sexual in nature – either physical or psychological – that are unwanted, coerced or committed without consent.

It can be:

  • A single occurrence, or can be ongoing by the same or different perpetrator(s)
  • Experienced by people of all genders
  • Experienced by people of any age
  • Is most likely perpetrated by someone known to the victim/survivor
  • In-­person or online (i.e. using social media such as Facebook and Tinder, sharing nude pictures, texting)

Examples of sexual violence

  • Stalking
  • Voyeurism
  • Molestation
  • Sexual abuse
  • Indecent exposure
  • Sexual harassment
  • Cyber-sexual harassment
  • Unwanted sexual comments
  • Unwanted touching or advances
  • The denial of another person's sexual decision-making rights
  • Removal of or failure to use a condom during intercourse without consent
  • Coercion of another person's sexuality by physical or psychological intimidation

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