Violence in its general concept is forcing someone to do something, and it is one of the worst practices against humanity. There are many types of violence, including psychological, physical and sexual violence Perhaps the most severe form of violence is sexual violence.

It occurs when someone forces you to have sex or commit a particular sexual act without your consent, including incidents occurring online or in fact. In this article we will learn about what is sexual violence? And its different forms in addition to its impact on mental health?

What is the definition of sexual abuse?

Individuals have the right to sexual freedom and physical dignity so sexual abuse is a serious violation of those rights

Sexual violence is a sexual behaviour or act imposed on a woman, man or child without their consent, especially against a person they consider weaker than him and this act may come from an uncontrollable sexual drive or with the aim of controlling and humiliating the victim.

Sexual violence is a social phenomenon that exists in most societies, but it is increasing frequently in societies that accept aggressive behaviour and gender inequality statistics show that one in three of the world’s women experience violence in its various forms during their lifetime.

Causes of sexual abuse

The causes of sexual abuse are multiple, including:

1. Desire to control and prove strength.
2. Forcing girls to marry, resulting in the wife’s rejection of intimate relationship with the husband, the husband resorting to sexual violence in this case to complete the marital relationship.
3. Some people feel sexual pleasure only in violent sexual practices.
4. Underage marriage: When a young girl marries, her intimacy seems to be a kind of violence and abuse.
5. Some psychological factors such as excessive aggression or psychiatric disorders may contribute to people’s drive towards sexual violence.
6. Past sexual harassment or abuse may lead to future sexual harassment or abuse of others.

What are the consequences of sexual abuse?

child sexual abuse or women has strong consequences for the body and psychological condition such as:

1. Social isolation and loss of important relationships and friendships.
2. Physical consequences such as injuries, burns, wounds, concussions.
3. Depression, guilt and shame.
4. Sleep disorders and overthinking.
5. Negative impact on self-esteem.

If you experience sexual violence and still suffer from these symptoms you should contact your psychiatrist or sex therapist to have a more stable life.

Is sexual abuse a psychological illness?

Sexual violence isn’t a mental illness in itself, it is harmful behaviour and an offence committed by individuals. However, people who commit sexual violence may have problems or psychiatric disorders that play an important role in their behaviour.

Such as excessive aggression, lack of emotional control, personality disorders, and sex disorders can all contribute to the formation of violent behavior.

Forms of sexual abuse:

1. Touching a person without his consent, kissing or hugging him.
2. Sexual harassment or abuse.
3. Forced sexual intercourse or acts.
4. Encourage participation to watch porn films.
5. Online sexual chats and connotations.
6. Threat if the victim doesn’t engage in sexual acts.

What do you do if you experience sexual abuse?

Don’t shut up about this criminal act, talk to someone close to you or consult a sexual doctor who will help you get rid of one of the negative consequences resulting from the sexual abuse thus you helped yourself as well as everyone who is subjected to such violent abuse.

If you have experienced sexual violence before, protect yourself from its negative effects by contact with Dr. Mona Reda, a consultant in mental and sexual health to get your consultation with a medical team specializing in sexual health.

Resources: Types of Sexual Assault