Understanding Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is any forced, coerced, unwanted sexual contact. Sexual assault can include different forms of violence. Remember, sexual assault is never the victim’s fault.

Types of Sexual Assault

Sexual assault can include, but is not limited, to:

  • Attempted rape
  • Rape - sexual intercourse or penetration without permission (consent)
  • Sexual threats and intimidation
  • Incest - sexual contact with a family member
  • Sexual assault by intimate partners or persons known to the victim
  • Child sexual abuse
  • Human sexual trafficking
  • Unwanted fondling or sexual touching
  • Sexual harassment and street harassment
  • Other forms of unwelcome, coerced or non-consensual activity

If You Experience Sexual Assault

It is not your fault. Sexual assault may leave you feeling hopeless or ashamed, but you are not powerless. These are normal responses, and you are not alone. 

To get help like counseling, local hotlines and more, you can go to a local crisis center. You can use our Crisis Center Locator to find a center near you.

Find A Crisis Center

Sexual Assault Statistics

  • 70% of sexual assaults are committed by a perpetrator known or related to the victim (1)
  • 2 in 5 women in Texas have been sexually assaulted (2)
  • 1 in 5 men in Texas have been sexual assaulted (2)
  • 6.3 million Texans have experienced some form of sexual assault in their lifetime (2)
  1. Madigan, T. (2012). The serial rapists is not who you think. Star Telegram Online
  2. Busch-Armendariz, N.B., Olaya, D., Kerwick, M., Wachter, K. & Sulley, C. (2015). Health and well-being: Texas statewide sexual assault prevalence. The University of Texas at Austin, Institute on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault: Austin, Texas

Related Links