The emotional effects of any form of unwelcome sexual activity are difficult to categorize, but the law must have very clear distinctions. The fundamental distinctions between sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual abuse are their legal ramifications; none of these phrases, however, can adequately describe the emotional toll that these crimes have on their victims. All three of these expressions refer to sexual wrongdoing in some way.
Read on to learn the difference between these types of criminal activity. If you have suffered sexual harassment in the workplace, PLBH might be able to help you. Contact us now at (800) 435-7542 to request a consultation.
Sexual harassment
The word “sexual harassment” covers a wide range of unwanted behaviors, including unwanted sexual approaches, demands for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical acts that have a sexual undertone. Sexual harassment may happen anywhere, including the workplace, schools, and other places. It may be committed by a manager, coworker, teacher, pupil, or any other person who has control over the victim.
Here are a few frequent instances of sexual harassment: joking or making inappropriate remarks about a person’s physique or sexual life, asking a person privately about their past or current sexual activities, recommending that someone have sex with you or another person, sexually harassing someone without their permission, and sending unwanted texts, emails, or other communications that are sexually explicit.
Sexual assault
Sexual contact that takes place without the recipient’s express permission is known as sexual assault. Unwanted contact to rape are all considered forms of sexual assault. The perpetrators of these crimes might be strangers or individuals the victim knows, including a friend, relative, or romantic partner.
Several prevalent instances of sexual assault include unwanted or fondling contact with a person’s genitalia, breasts, or other bodily parts, obliging a person to engage in sexual activity against their consent, attempted or actual rape, attempts at or actual sodomy.
Sexual abuse
Any sexual misbehavior that involves the use of force, compulsion, or manipulation is referred to as sexual abuse. Sexual abuse can happen in intimate relationships, families, or other contexts. Typically, a family member, close friend, or romantic partner that the victim knows and trusts will commit these crimes.
Here are a few frequent instances of sexual abuse having intercourse with someone against their will, requiring someone to engage in sexual behavior they don’t want to, attacking a person sexually when they are unconscious or unable to agree, coercing or manipulating someone into giving explicit photographs or videos, and threatening to publish sexually explicit images or recordings of a person without their permission.
Contact an attorney if you have been the victim of sexual harassment
If you have been the victim of sexual abuse or sexual assault, your first step should be to get medical care if necessary. Then contact the police to file a report. If you are the victim of sexual harassment, contact an employment law attorney to determine what your options are. You can call PLBH at (800) 435-7542 now for a consultation.