Knowra Sexual assault Sexual assault Sexual assault is sexual contact or conduct without a person’s consent, as defined by applicable criminal law. Its legal scope and terminology vary by jurisdiction.
Consent : Freely given, informed, and revocable agreement to an activity. Whether agreement was present is central to distinguishing consensual sexual activity from assault.
Rape : A criminal offense involving nonconsensual sexual penetration, defined differently across jurisdictions. Many legal systems treat rape as a specific offense distinct from other sexual assaults.
Actus reus : The conduct or circumstance element of a criminal offense. Prosecutors must establish the prohibited sexual act or contact required by the charged offense.
Post-traumatic stress disorder : A mental health condition that can develop after exposure to traumatic events. Some survivors develop PTSD, though responses to assault vary widely.
Sexual violence : Violence or coercion directed at a person’s sexuality, including sexual assault and rape. Sexual assault is one form within this broader category.
Sexual harassment : Unwelcome sexual conduct that violates legal protections or workplace and educational rules. Harassment can be unlawful without involving the contact or conduct charged as sexual assault.
Mens rea : The mental state required for criminal liability. Some sexual-assault offenses require proof of a specified knowledge, intent, or recklessness.
Sexually transmitted infection : An infection transmitted primarily through sexual contact. Clinical care after an assault may include testing, prevention, or treatment.
Coercion : The use of threats, force, or pressure to compel another person’s action. Coercion can undermine consent even when physical force is absent.
Domestic violence : Abuse or violence between intimate partners or family members. Sexual assault may occur within abusive relationships, while domestic violence includes other forms of abuse.
Show all 20