In sexual relationships, coercion refers to any type of behavior that involves persuading someone into sexual activity without their consent, through verbal or physical pressure. It is often considered an act of abuse because it violates a person's autonomy and can lead to negative emotional and psychological consequences for victims. Sexual coercion can occur between strangers or acquaintances but is most commonly experienced within romantic partnerships. This type of non-consensual experience has been linked to various negative outcomes such as depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance misuse, low self-esteem, and reduced quality of life.
Little research has examined how experiences of sexual coercion influence relational trust, empathy, and long-term interpersonal functioning.
Research suggests that individuals who have experienced sexual coercion are more likely to develop distrust towards others and may find it difficult to establish close bonds with others due to fear of being victimized again. Victims may also be less willing to share intimate information or participate in sexual activities, which can impact their relationship satisfaction.
Victims may have difficulty understanding other people's perspectives and empathizing with them, leading to strains in communication and conflict resolution. These negative effects can extend beyond the initial relationship and affect future relationships as well.
Experiencing sexual coercion can alter an individual's perception of themselves and their relationships, resulting in lowered self-esteem and increased feelings of shame or guilt. This can make it challenging to form new connections or maintain existing ones, further exacerbating problems with trust and empathy.
Experiences of sexual coercion can significantly impact relational trust, empathy, and long-term interpersonal functioning by negatively impacting one's sense of safety, autonomy, and confidence. It is essential for partners to recognize these issues and work together to build a supportive and safe environment free from violence and abuse.
How do experiences of sexual coercion influence relational trust, empathy, and long-term interpersonal functioning?
Research suggests that experiencing sexual coercion can have significant effects on an individual's relational trust, empathy, and long-term interpersonal functioning. Individuals who experience sexual coercion may feel betrayed by their partners, which can lead to distrust in future relationships (Davis et al. , 2019). This can be especially difficult if the individuals involved are intimate friends or family members.