PRATIDHI
(A Collaborative Society of Delhi Police and AFD)
ASSOCIATION FOR DEVELOPMENT
(Professionals for Committed Action )
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Sexual Abuse Against Women
Sexual abuse against women includes a range of illegal and coercive activities that violate a woman's autonomy and dignity. Key forms are rape (forced sexual intercourse without consent), sexual assault (unwanted sexual contact), sexual harassment (unwelcome sexual advances or behavior), incest (abuse by a family member), sexual exploitation (using someone for sexual gain), sex trafficking (forcing commercial sex acts), and digital sexual abuse (non-consensual sharing of private images).
Women are disproportionately targeted by sexual abuse, reflecting broader societal power imbalances. Effective prevention and response require robust legal frameworks, support services for survivors, public awareness, and efforts to challenge harmful gender norms and stereotypes. Promoting gender equality and empowering women are crucial steps toward reducing abuse and ensuring justice for survivors.
Consequences of Sexual Abuse Against Women
Physical Health Consequences: Sexual abuse against women can lead to STIs, physical injuries like bruises and broken bones, and chronic health issues such as persistent pain and reproductive problems.
Mental Health Consequences: Survivors may experience depression, PTSD with symptoms like flashbacks and severe anxiety, and anxiety disorders involving persistent fear and panic attacks.
Behavioral Consequences: Increased substance misuse, engagement in risky sexual behaviors, and a higher risk of self-harm or suicidal actions are common behavioral outcomes.
Impact on Society: Sexual abuse incurs significant economic costs for healthcare and legal services, disrupts workplaces through lost productivity and absenteeism, and causes social stigma and intergenerational trauma affecting children of survivors.
Preventing Sexual Abuse Against Women: Prevention strategies include education on consent and healthy relationships, stronger legal protections, accessible support services, and community efforts to create safe environments and support survivors.