Sexual coercion is a serious problem that affects many people globally. It refers to forcing someone to have sexual intercourse against their will, without them agreeing to it. This can happen between partners who are dating, but also within marriage or any other relationship. Sexual coercion often leads to traumatic experiences for victims. While the immediate effects may be devastating, they do not always stop there. Victims of sexual coercion can experience long-term psychological adjustment issues. These problems include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), self-harm, eating disorders, addiction, and suicidal thoughts or attempts.
One reason why sexual coercion has such lasting effects is due to the power imbalance involved. When someone forces another person into sex, the victim feels powerless and humiliated. They feel like they cannot say no, which causes them to lose trust in themselves and others. In some cases, they start to blame themselves for what happened, leading to feelings of guilt and shame. The trauma from sexual coercion can also cause physical symptoms, including muscle tension, headaches, insomnia, and heart palpitations.
Another factor contributing to long-term psychological adjustment issues is the impact on identity. After experiencing sexual coercion, victims may question who they are as individuals and whether they deserve love and respect. They may struggle with self-esteem and confidence, feeling like they are less valuable than others. This can lead to social withdrawal and avoidance behaviors, making it harder to form meaningful relationships in the future.
Sexual coercion victims may also develop a negative outlook on life, becoming cynical and pessimistic about their prospects. They may see themselves as damaged goods or believe that they will never find true happiness or intimacy again. This attitude can negatively affect their ability to trust people or take risks in other areas of life. It can even lead to self-destructive behavior, such as engaging in dangerous activities or putting themselves in unsafe situations.
In addition to these general effects, sexual coercion can have more specific consequences.
Victims may experience flashbacks or nightmares related to the incident, making it difficult to sleep or concentrate. They may avoid being alone with certain people or places, creating problems in their daily lives. They may also feel isolated and alone due to the stigma associated with sexual violence.
Dealing with the aftermath of sexual coercion requires professional help. Victims need support from counselors, therapists, and medical professionals who understand how to treat the physical and emotional trauma caused by this type of abuse. With time, many victims recover and learn to move forward with their lives.
Some continue to suffer long-term psychological adjustment issues, which can impact their personal and professional lives. Therefore, preventing sexual coercion is essential for promoting mental health and wellness worldwide.
How does sexual coercion influence long-term psychological adjustment?
Sexual coercion can have significant long-term psychological impact on individuals. It may lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, guilt, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other negative mental health outcomes. The victim may also experience social isolation, stigmatization, and difficulties trusting others.