Sexual Violence & Exploitation

Sexual assault and abuse is any type of sexual activity that you do not agree to, including: inappropriate touching, vaginal, anal, or oral penetration, sexual intercourse, rape, attempted rape, and child molestation. Sexual assault can be verbal, visual, or anything that forces a person to join in unwanted sexual contact or attention. It can happen in different situations, by a stranger in an isolated place, on a date, or in the home by someone you know.

From Our Collection

Boyhood Shadows

Defining Sexual Assault

Surviving Sexual Violence: A Guide to Recovery and Empowerment

The Sexual Trauma Workbook for Teen Girls: A Guide to Recovery from Sexual Assault & Abuse

Examples of Sexual Violence

Voyeurism: When someone watches private sexual acts
Exhibitionism: When someone exposes him/herself in public
Incest: Sexual contact between family members
Sexual Harassment

Rape is a common form of sexual assault. It is committed in many situations—on a date, by a friend or an acquaintance, or when you think you are alone. Educate yourself on “date rape” drugs. They can be slipped into a drink when a victim is not looking. Never leave your drink unattended—no matter where you are. Try to always be aware of your surroundings. Date rape drugs make a person unable to resist assault and can cause memory loss so the victim doesn’t know what happened.

Source: National Women's Health Information Center

Help is Available

If you are sexually assaulted, it is not your fault. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or support. You can call these organizations:

Connecticut Sexual Assault Crisis Services (CONNSACS)
1-888-999-5545
1-888-568-8332 (En Espanol)

National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TDD)

National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

Research & Data

Child Sex Trafficking and Commercial Sexual Exploitation: Health Care Needs of Victims - AAP
Crime Data Explorer
The Connecticut School Health Survey
The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey
Find data on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and Sexual Violence (SV).

Screening Tools

Screening for Human Trafficking: Guidelines for Administering the Trafficking Victim Identification Tool (TVIT)

Apps

BeyondMST
An app created for survivors of military sexual trauma (MST), with information and resources to help you cope with challenges and improve your health, relationships, and quality of life. Learn more on the VA website.
Rainn Mobile App
Gives survivors of sexual violence and their loved ones access to support, self-care tools, and information to help manage the short- and long-term effects of sexual violence.
Learn More