Sexual coercion is a type of forced sexual activity that involves one person forcing another to participate without consent. It can be physical, verbal, or emotional. It may occur between strangers or acquaintances, but it most often happens within close relationships such as marriage or dating. Sexual coercion may lead to trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, fear, shame, guilt, anger, avoidance, dissociation, distrust, and difficulty forming new relationships. Coercive experiences may shape long-term patterns of relating, trusting, and healing in various ways.
One way sexual coercion affects relational patterns is through power dynamics. In situations where someone has been pressured into unwanted sexual behavior, they may begin to doubt their own agency and autonomy. They may feel like they are not allowed to make decisions about their own body or life. This can lead to an internalized sense of helplessness, which manifests itself in their ability to set boundaries and trust others. People who have experienced coercion may find themselves constantly seeking approval from others because they believe they don't deserve it.
Another effect of sexual coercion is that it can create mistrust in future relationships. If someone has had a negative experience with sex, they may become wary of new partners or interactions. They may not want to engage in sexual behaviors out of fear of being manipulated or hurt again. This can also make it difficult for them to open up emotionally and share their feelings with a partner.
Sexual coercion can impact resilience by creating a sense of shame and self-blame. Victims of coercion may blame themselves for the incident, believing that they should have fought back harder or refused consent. This can cause them to feel isolated and alone, making it difficult for them to reach out for support.
Those who have been coerced may develop a distrust of authority figures such as therapists or police officers, leading to difficulties in getting help when needed.
How do experiences of sexual coercion shape long-term relational patterns, trust, and resilience?
Sexual coercion refers to any form of unwanted or forced sexual activity that is carried out against someone's will. It can include rape, assault, harassment, and intimate partner violence. Experiences of sexual coercion can have a profound impact on an individual's long-term relational patterns, trust, and resilience.