Sexual violence is possibly the most under reported crime in Australia, yet the impact creates serious and damaging psychological issues that can last a lifetime. Sexually violent crimes are linked to social and historical attitudes, conditions and behaviours in relation to grooming, power and control. These crimes are committed in different situations such as in the home, in public, by a relative, a friend, an acquaintance or a stranger.
Forms of sexual violence can include:
- Inappropriate or unwelcome touching
- Sexual harassment
- Sexual assault
- Rape
- Attempted rape
- Child sexual abuse
- Incest (sexual contact between family members)
- Forcing someone to watch, touch or act in unwanted sexual activities
- Voyeurism (viewing private sexual acts or people undressing)
- Exhibitionism (exposing naked parts of the body to other people)
- Revenge Porn (using computers, mobile phones to expose or distribute sexually-based material)
- Producing or viewing child pornography
The majority of sexual violence goes unreported due to the victim-survivors feelings of fear, shame, misplaced self-blame and guilt.
We encourage every person to reach out for support if they have experienced sexual violence. Some may wish to report to police, other people may choose to not report. Recognising and understanding the intricacies of grooming in relation to sexual violence is important for post trauma growth. Our specialists can talk through options with you and provide you with ongoing psychological support.
