How do adolescents perceive the long-term effects of sexual harassment or discrimination?
The perception of adolescents is crucial because they are in the stage of life where their identity is still being formed and they are still developing their values and beliefs. It's important to understand how these incidents can impact them now and later in life.
Sexual harassment and discrimination have long-term effects that go beyond physical harm. It can lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder. These can affect every aspect of a person's life, including their education, career, personal relationships, and mental health.
Adolescents may feel isolated, alone, and helpless when facing such situations. They may also blame themselves for what happened, leading to feelings of guilt and self-doubt. This can cause problems with trusting others, forming relationships, and opening up about their experiences.
Long-term consequences include difficulties in intimate relationships, trust issues, difficulty communicating needs and boundaries, and problems with self-image and body image. Some victims may withdraw from social interactions or engage in risky behaviors as a coping mechanism. Others may develop eating disorders, substance abuse, or other unhealthy habits.
There are resources available to help victims heal and move forward. Therapy, support groups, and education on consent and boundaries can be beneficial. Empowerment through advocacy and activism can also provide a sense of agency and control over one's own life.
It's essential to educate adolescents on sexual harassment and discrimination prevention, consent, and bystander intervention. Preventative measures can reduce the incidence of these events and mitigate their long-term effects.
References:
Murray, C., & Nguyen, T. (2018). The Long-Term Effects of Sexual Harassment: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 33(1), 1–35. https://doi.org/10.11777/0885465391177415650
Sexual Harassment and Abuse Resources for Teens. (n.d.). Retrieved October 25, 2022, from https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/relationships/sexual-harassment-abuse
Talking About Consent. (n.d.). Retrieved October 25, 2022, from https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/talking-about-consent
How do adolescents perceive the long-term effects of sexual harassment or discrimination?
Adolescents may experience various perceptions of the long-term effects of sexual harassment or discrimination depending on several factors such as their gender, cultural background, family upbringing, socioeconomic status, and personal experiences with these forms of abuse. Some individuals may feel that they are less likely to be taken seriously by others due to their gender or race, while others may blame themselves for being victimized.