Sexual coercion is a form of abuse that involves using physical force, manipulation, threats, and/or emotional blackmail to persuade someone to engage in sexual activities against their will. It can take various forms such as rape, sexual assault, harassment, etc. The long-term impacts of sexual coercion on an individual's mental health are severe. Studies have shown that it leads to low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal thoughts. Survivors also experience difficulty trusting others and forming new relationships. This essay explores the effects of sexual coercion on moral reasoning, ethical decision-making, and interpersonal trust.
Moral reasoning refers to the process of evaluating whether a particular behavior is right or wrong based on one's values, principles, and beliefs. Sexual coercion violates the victim's autonomy and boundaries, leading them to question their morals and ethics. They may feel guilty for not resisting enough or wonder if they deserved it. This confusion makes it difficult for survivors to make decisions about what behaviors they consider acceptable or unacceptable in future relationships.
A survivor who was forced into sex by a partner may find it challenging to decide whether sex outside marriage is permissible.
Ethical decision-making involves weighing the pros and cons of actions and choosing the most appropriate course of action. Sexual coercion victims often struggle with this process because they doubt themselves and second-guess every choice. They may wonder if they could have done something differently to avoid the situation or blame themselves for what happened. This can lead to indecisiveness and paralysis, making it hard to take any action at all.
Interpersonal trust refers to believing someone will act in our best interest and keep promises made to us. Survivors of sexual coercion find it challenging to trust others because they feel betrayed by those close to them. Trust takes time to build, but when it is broken, it becomes impossible to rebuild without professional help. A survivor may start doubting their partner's commitment, honesty, and intentions, which can be damaging to their relationship.
What are the long-term effects of sexual coercion on moral reasoning, ethical decision-making, and interpersonal trust?
The long-term effects of sexual coercion on moral reasoning, ethical decision-making, and interpersonal trust can be significant and far-reaching, as they may lead to feelings of guilt, shame, anxiety, fear, distrust, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).