Sexual coercion is an insidious form of abuse that has far-reaching effects on individuals who experience it. It takes place when one individual forces another into unwanted sexual activity through physical force, threats, manipulation, or emotional blackmail. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, fear, isolation, self-blame, and trauma. Experiences of sexual coercion can also impact access to psychological support and the efficacy of mental health interventions.
Victims of sexual coercion may be reluctant to seek help because they feel ashamed or guilty about their experiences. They may believe that they deserved what happened to them or worry that others will judge them harshly if they speak up. They may also fear retaliation from their perpetrator or reprisal from friends, family members, or colleagues. As such, many victims may avoid seeking professional assistance even if they need it. Secondly, those who do seek help often struggle with trusting professionals due to past experiences of betrayal or exploitation by people in positions of power. Victims may find it difficult to open up about their experiences and may become defensive or resistant during therapy sessions. Thirdly, certain types of mental health interventions may not be effective for victims of sexual coercion. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, relies heavily on cognitive restructuring which requires clients to challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs.
Victims of sexual coercion may have difficulty recognizing their own agency and may doubt themselves and their abilities to change.
Exposure therapy may retraumatize some survivors as it involves confronting the source of their trauma directly.
A lack of awareness among professionals about sexual coercion can lead to misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment, and poor outcomes. Professionals may fail to recognize or address the impact of trauma and instead focus on other issues, such as substance abuse or depression.
To combat these challenges, therapists should provide safe and supportive spaces where clients feel comfortable disclosing their experiences without judgment or shame. They should also educate themselves on the unique needs of survivors of sexual violence and how to work effectively with them. Trauma-informed approaches that prioritize safety and empowerment are particularly effective in helping victims of sexual coercion.
Victims who do not respond well to traditional therapy may benefit from alternative treatments such as mindfulness meditation or somatic experiencing. These techniques help people become more aware of their bodies and sensations while learning to regulate their emotions. By offering various options, professionals can better meet the diverse needs of those seeking help after experiencing sexual coercion.
How can experiences of sexual coercion influence access to psychological support and the efficacy of mental health interventions?
One possible explanation for this is that individuals who have experienced sexual coercion may find it difficult to seek help due to feelings of shame and embarrassment, as well as fear of judgment or stigmatization from others. Additionally, trauma associated with the experience can lead to symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD which can further impede seeking out professional support.