Sexual assault

Sexual assault is a term from law. It's when a sexual act happens between people, but one or more of the people involved do not consent.^[1][2] In most countries, this is a crime. Sexual assault is a form of sexual violence.

There are different forms of sexual assault, including:

• Rape, which is forcing someone to have sex who does not give consent. They may not want to do it, or may not be able to give consent.
• Child sexual abuse, which involves sexual acts with a child. Children are too young to give consent, so sexual acts with children are always considered sexual assault.
• Groping, which is touching people in sexual ways (usually without their consent).
• Domestic violence, which can involve sexual violence.
• Elder abuse, which involves non-consensual sexual acts with an older person.
• Sexual harassment, which is a type of harassment.

Often, cases of sexual assault are not reported by victims because of social stigma.^[1] In certain countries, there are laws that will punish the victim, for example for "seducing" someone.^[source?]

1. ↑ ^{1.0 1.1} Cite error: The named reference Cameron was used but no text was provided for refs named (see the help page).
2. ↑ Cite error: The named reference SA Fact Sheet was used but no text was provided for refs named (see the help page).