“Violence is anything that denies human integrity and leads to hopelessness and helplessness.”
 - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

 

At the individual level, violence exists when one person with power attempts to exert their power or control over another person. Violence may include verbal, physical, or emotional abuse. Violence at the societal level is when a group of people with power attempts to exert its power or control over another group. Violence may lead to the survivor(s) of the violence feeling hopeless and/or helpless. However, violence is NEVER the survivor’s fault. Violence is a choice made by the offender.

 

 

- State of South Carolina Department of Education Comprehensive Health Education Instructional Units and Resources for Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Prevention Standards and Performance Indicators, p. 162

 

 

Sexual assault is a form of violence in which one person attempts or threatens to force another person to engage in a sexual behavior without that person’s consent. Examples of sexual assault include touching, molestation, and rape. Rape, a form of sexual assault, occurs when one person forces another to engage in a sexual act that involves penetration.

 

Consent is defined as the equal agreement of both parties on a specific act at that moment. You always have the right to change your mind after you agree to something, or give consent. If you do not feel comfortable with something, do not agree to do it. If it is already happening and you are no longer comfortable, feel free to stop the behavior and let your partner know you have changed your mind. If someone does not give you their consent, do not proceed with the act or behavior.

 

Sexual assault, of any kind, is illegal. Consent is ALWAYS required to proceed with a sexual act of any kind. If you are unsure if your partner wants to do something, ask them. A person must be at least 16 years old in order to give consent for sexual activity. Always make sure to get consent from your partner before beginning any sexual activity. If you do not, you risk breaking the law and facing serious, long-term ramifications.

 

Sexual assault crimes can result in jail time of up to 30 years. Additionally, an offender, depending upon the crime, is required to register as a sex offender. Sex offenders must register for the rest of their lives and experience many negative consequences of these decisions. Sex offenders are often treated like outcasts by their communities, as they are viewed as threats to the safety of children and others. As a result, they have difficulty finding gainful employment, suitable living arrangements, and healthy relationships.

 

 

Admitting that you are in an abusive relationship, or have been the victim of sexual assault, can be challenging. You may not want to talk about it and instead deny that the relationship is unhealthy, or that you have been a victim of assault. You also may feel scared that your partner will get into trouble. Unfortunately, ignoring the problem will only make it worse. If you feel that you are in danger, you should tell a parent, teacher, counselor, or other trusted adult to get help immediately. They will do so without making you feel bad about asking for help. Your safety is the highest priority.

 

 

If you or anyone you know has experience with these or other difficult situations, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Talking to a parent, teacher, counselor, family member, or other trusted adult can help you to resolve the situation before things become too difficult to control.