Running head: SEXUAL ABUSE 1
Sexual Abuse
Ashley Nicole Thompson
Lawson State Community College
SEXUAL ABUSE 2
Abstract
This paper expounds on the topic of sexual abuse and its effects on individuals. In this paper, you
will read and have all information about what is sexual abuse and how if effects the victims.
Sexual abuse is not only one of the most offensive crimes a person can do it also leaves
outstanding consequences and severe depression among those affected. This paper will include
excerpts from “The sexual abuse of Children Volume1” and research from online professors and
psychologists.
SEXUAL ABUSE 3
Sexual Abuse
Sexual Abuse is one of the most heinous crimes an individual can commit. However, the
action of the crime takes a dramatic toll on the victim. This effect on individual is life changing
and may take a lifetime for the psychological aspect to heal. Sexual Abuse is a serious challenge
to face and an obstacle that too many may never overcome.
Introduction
If you are not exactly sure what sexual abuse is, you’re not alone. All unwanted sexual
touching between two persons is sexual abuse. Sexual abuse does not have to involve
penetration, force, pain, or touching. If a person engages in any unwanted sexual behavior with
another person against their will.it is sexual abuse. Sexual abuse, also referred to as molestation,
is usually undesired sexual behavior by one person upon another. When force is immediate, of
short duration, or infrequent, it is called sexual assault. The offender is referred to as a sexual
abuser or molester. Sexual Abuse often starts when a child is first born. In most cases children
begin to be sexually abused by their close relatives. The betrayal of trust in family member
occurs when this event happens. This results in devastating outcomes that will hinder the child as
they enter adulthood. Their social relationships will be drastically affected, especially when it
comes to romantic relationships. The cultural aspect of sexual abuse plays a big role in this
matter as well. The retaliation based on culture defines whether the victim receives the emotional
support they need. If the emotional support isn’t there, the psychological and mental health of the
individual is diminished. This makes the victim subject to several disorders of the brain.
Ultimately, the final stage in any abuse is acceptance and a subtle mediation to repair all the
effects of sexual abuse.
SEXUAL ABUSE 4
Brief History1
Sexual Abuse has been occurring since the beginning of time. However, people are now talking
about this issue more. 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 20 boys is a victim of child sexual abuse; Self-report
studies show that 20% of adult females and 5-10% of adult males recall a childhood sexual
assault or sexual abuse incident; During a one-year period in the U.S., 16% of youth ages 14 to
17 had been sexually victimized. These statistics are jaw dropping and appalling. It’s so hard to
even fathom that so many people have been sexually abused. People may try to avoid the subject
of sexual abuse but it is a proven fact that this occurs very often. Sexual abuse has been a hidden
or hushed subject for families all around the world. There are some people that are sexually
abused by their mothers, fathers, siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins everyday but it is never
reported. This brings the victim to have severe trauma inflicted on them that they will carry
