Sexual Assault, Harassment, and Partner Violence

This lesson covers various forms of **non-consensual sexual behavior** including rape, harassment, and partner violence. It also introduces sociocultural and psychological theories of aggression and abuse. These behaviors range in severity but are always harmful, both psychologically and physically.

• Rape: Defined as **penetration without consent**, whether by force, threat, or when the victim is incapacitated.
• Statutory Rape: Sexual contact with minors or those legally unable to consent due to age or disability.
• Most rapes are committed by someone the victim **knows**—not strangers.
• CDC (2010a): 1 in 5 U.S. women report having experienced completed or attempted rape in their lifetime.

• Quid Pro Quo: Employment or academic benefits tied to sexual favors.
• Hostile Environment: Ongoing unwanted sexual conduct that disrupts work or academic performance.
• Harassment is most common in **male-dominated workplaces** or schools with weak enforcement policies.

• Defined as **repeated, unwanted attention** that causes fear.
• Types:
  • Intimate Partner Stalking (most common)
  • Delusional Stalking (celebrity or imagined relationship)
  • Grudge Stalking (revenge-driven)

IPV refers to **physical, sexual, emotional, or economic abuse** within romantic or formerly romantic relationships. It is one of the most prevalent forms of violence globally.

• CDC (2011): ~36% of women and 29% of men report experiencing violence or stalking from an intimate partner.
• Risk factors: youth (under 30), poverty, unemployment, and childhood abuse history.

• Tension Building: Jealousy, control, threats, verbal abuse.
• Violence: Actual physical or sexual attack.
• Reconciliation: Apologies, gifts, affection—sets up next cycle.

Victims often stay due to hope for change, **emotional manipulation**, and **economic dependence**.

• Views rape and violence as **tools of patriarchal control**.
• Highlights **gender inequality**, male entitlement, and systemic tolerance of aggression.

• Focuses on **sexual strategies theory**, suggesting males evolved a greater interest in casual sex.
• Misfiring of these adaptations may contribute to coercive behaviors in some individuals.

• Emphasizes **modeling and reinforcement**—boys exposed to violence or pornography may develop distorted ideas about consent or gender roles.

• Programs focusing on **bystander intervention** and **consent education** are the most effective.
• Survivors benefit from **crisis intervention**, **counseling**, and support groups.
• Campus initiatives, including the **Clery Act**, aim to improve safety and accountability.