Sexual coercion is a serious problem in modern society that affects many people. It refers to unwanted sexual behavior, usually physical, verbal, or emotional pressure to perform sexual acts against one's will. Sexual coercion can occur between partners, family members, friends, acquaintances, colleagues, superiors, subordinates, strangers, or others. This article explores the long-term psychological outcomes of sexual coercion for service members and their social networks.
Let's look at how it affects the victim of sexual coercion. After experiencing trauma from sexual coercion, victims often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, insomnia, and other mental health problems. They may also develop unhealthy coping mechanisms like self-harm, substance abuse, or risky behaviors. Victims may experience feelings of shame, guilt, fear, anger, resentment, isolation, helplessness, powerlessness, loss of trust, and betrayal by the perpetrator. These effects can last for years or even decades after the event.
We must consider the impact on the victim's social network. Friends and family members may be affected by the victim's trauma and need support themselves. They may feel guilty, confused, angry, sad, or helpless about not being able to protect their loved ones. The victim may lose trust in those around them, leading to social withdrawal or isolation. In some cases, the victim may even turn against their community, causing strained relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors.
We must examine how sexual coercion affects society as a whole. When individuals are forced into unwanted sexual acts, they may become less productive at work, school, or home life. They may have difficulty concentrating, making decisions, performing tasks, communicating effectively, or maintaining positive relationships. This can lead to lost opportunities, lower quality of life, financial instability, and reduced economic output. Sexual coercion can also create a culture of silence and stigma that discourages reporting incidents, seeking help, or advocating for change.
Sexual coercion has far-reaching consequences beyond the individual victim. It creates ripples through families, communities, societies, and cultures, damaging mental health, relationships, careers, and economies. By understanding these long-term psychological outcomes, we can better support victims and address this serious problem.
What are the long-term psychological outcomes of sexual coercion for service members and their social networks?
Sexual coercion is associated with various negative consequences among both survivors and witnesses across different cultural contexts, including depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicidal ideation, self-blame, relationship difficulties, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to poor work performance, absenteeism, and decreased productivity due to increased medical visits and treatments.