Who can be a victim of sexual assault

Who can be a victim of sexual assault

Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual act done to a person without their full permission. It hurts people’s bodies, minds, and feelings. Some people think this only happens to certain people in certain places. But really, anyone can be a survivor of sexual assault—young or old, rich or poor, strong or weak, in a big city or a small town.

Sexual assault does not discriminate, and therefore if you are a survivor of sexual violence, know that it is not your fault, you are not alone, and you have the right to seek justice.

Children Can Be Assaulted

Children are one of the most vulnerable groups when it comes to sexual assault. They depend on adults for food, shelter, and safety. They also may not understand what is happening to them. Sometimes, they do not have the words to explain. Other times, they think it is their fault or fear they will get in trouble if they speak up.

Children are uniquely vulnerable to sexual assault due to developmental limitations in understanding or articulating abuse. RAINN reports that one in nine girls and one in 20 boys under 18 experience sexual abuse, with 82 percent of all minor survivors being female. Shockingly, 70 percent of reported sexual assaults involve survivors aged 17 or younger, peaking at ages 12–17.

Age and Understanding

Kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens, can be survivors of sexual assault. Little ones might not know that what is happening is abuse. They might think, “This person is older; they must be allowed to do this.” Young children usually trust adults and older kids, so if the abuser says, “This is our secret,” they might listen, believing it is normal. Teenagers might also feel confused, especially if they think the attacker is someone they “like” or if they fear losing friendships.

Tricks and Threats

Someone who abuses a child might groom them. Grooming means building trust and slowly crossing boundaries. For example, an adult might buy gifts, give special treats, or offer rides to gain trust. Then, they test the child’s limits, maybe with seemingly harmless touching that worsens over time. If a child questions it, the abuser might threaten them—“No one will believe you,” or “If you tell, you will be in trouble.” This can scare children into silence.

Why Children Are Targeted

Children are trusting and have limited knowledge about bodies and boundaries. They might not know enough to refuse or cannot communicate. Many kids fear that others won’t believe them if they speak up, and abusers exploit that fear.

The Effects on a Child

Abused children may experience nightmares, struggle at school, show changes in behavior, or feel shame about their bodies. The abuse can affect them for years, even into adulthood. Yet, many young survivors can heal and move forward with caring adults, therapy, and support. Understanding that children can be survivors helps us stay alert and protect them.

Psychological and Behavioral Consequences

The trauma of childhood sexual abuse manifests in both immediate and lifelong repercussions. Short-term effects include regressive behaviors, sleep disorders, and academic decline, while long-term outcomes correlate with PTSD, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. Trauma severity escalates with abuse duration, leading to identity distortion and relational dysfunction.

Teens Can Be Assaulted

Teenagers are in a stage of change. Their bodies and minds are growing, and they might explore friendships or romance. But they are still minors, not yet adults. This can put them in difficult situations.

Peer pressure or social media can also be a factor. Some teens may share private photos under pressure or get forced into activities they don't want.

Relationships and Consent

During the teen years, people start dating. Sometimes, they do not know the line between normal teen behavior and sexual abuse. They might think, “If I like this person, I should let them do what they want,” or “This is normal in a relationship.” But sexual assault is never okay, no matter the relationship. Even if two teens are dating, they both must agree every step of the way.

Peer Pressure or Social Pressure

Teenagers might also face social pressures. They seek acceptance, want to feel grown-up or fear rumors spreading about them. Abusers may exploit this vulnerability by saying, “If you don’t do this, I’ll share your private pictures with everyone.” The teen might feel trapped. Also, at parties or gatherings where alcohol or drugs are present, teens might struggle to protect themselves or even remember what happened.

Consequences of Sexual Abuse on Teens

Teen survivors might skip school or show big changes in mood and behavior. They can become depressed or anxious. They might engage in self-harm or keep secrets. They may also worry no one will believe them if the attacker is popular or if they fear being labeled a liar.

Adults Can Be Assaulted

Some believe that once someone is an adult, they can defend themselves. But sexual assault can happen to adults of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. It can happen in relationships, work, college campuses, or anywhere else. Just like for minors, adult survivors might feel shame or fear of not being believed.

Power Differences

Many adult survivors face power differences in relationships or workplaces. A boss might use their authority to coerce an employee, or a college professor might threaten a student’s grades unless the student gives in. This kind of control can make it hard for the adult survivor to say “no” or to report it.

Domestic and Relationship Abuse

Partners can also abuse adults. Even if someone is married or dating, their partner does not have the right to force sexual acts. If they do, it is assault. Some survivors feel stuck, financially or emotionally, so they stay. That does not mean they are less of a survivor. They might be afraid to leave because they do not have money, or they fear their partner.

College Campuses

Young adults at college often face new freedom. But there are also dangers like alcohol, parties, and peer pressure. Some campuses try to teach about consent and bystander intervention. Still, many assaults go unreported. Students may fear that their social status will be hurt or worry that the school will not believe them.

Seniors Can Be Assaulted

Not many people realize older adults can also face sexual assault. They may live in nursing homes or depend on family caregivers. Sadly, if someone is frail or has memory troubles, they can be targeted by abusers. Seniors might also struggle to communicate or fear losing their caretaker if they complain.

Nursing Home Abuse

Some older adults rely on staff for daily tasks like bathing or dressing. If a staff member is bad or predatory, they might use their position to harm seniors. Abusers may not believe the senior if they try to report it, especially if the senior has dementia or confusion. Families must stay aware of changes in mood or behavior, bruising, or fearfulness.

Lack of Reporting

A senior might think, “No one will believe me,” or “I do not want to cause trouble.” They might also blame themselves or think they are imagining things. Others might have trouble remembering the details. This can let abuse continue without being stopped.

Legal Protections

In many places, special laws protect seniors from harm and abuse. But these laws only help if someone speaks up. Caregivers, family, and friends must watch out for changes in the older person’s well-being. If something seems off, it might be a sign of abuse.

If you suspect someone is harming a senior, contact the authorities immediately. Elderly survivors deserve dignity and kindness. A sexual abuse lawyer can help them or their families file claims against responsible persons or facilities. Just because someone is older does not mean they do not matter. They have the same right to be safe as everyone else.

People with Disabilities or Special Needs

People with disabilities, whether physical, mental, or developmental, can face a high risk of sexual assault. Some have trouble speaking or caring for themselves, so they rely on caregivers. Others might not understand when someone is crossing a line. Predators sometimes target these individuals because they think others won't listen if they speak out.

Communication Barriers

People who cannot speak or use sign language might struggle to express what happened. Caregivers or interpreters might brush it off or not see the signs. This can result in repeated abuse. We must find ways to help them communicate, such as through picture boards or technology.

Dependence on Care

A person with physical disabilities might need help with everyday tasks. This can give the caregiver many chances to misuse power. The survivors might fear losing the care they need if they protest. If the abuser is a family member, the survivor can feel stuck and scared that no one else will help them.

Invisible Disabilities

Some disabilities are invisible. Some people have autism or a learning difference that can make it hard to understand the abuser’s actions. They might learn to "obey adults," making them unaware that it is abuse or cannot say "no."

Fighting Stigma

People might assume that those with disabilities are “less likely” to be assaulted. It is the opposite. They are often three times more likely to experience sexual assault. Families and caregivers must remain watchful for changes in mood, injuries, or statements that hint at abuse. A sexual abuse attorney can also help them if an institution or caretaker is at fault.

Why People of All Backgrounds Can Be Targeted for Assault

We often imagine a certain stereotype of a survivor or a place where assault “usually happens,” but sexual assault knows no boundaries. A person can be rich or poor, living in a city or the countryside, regardless of race or religion. The truth is that it can happen to anyone at any time.

• Culture and Beliefs: In some cultures, survivors may be too ashamed to speak up. They worry it will hurt their family’s “honor.” This can lead them to hide the abuse or endure it silently. In other groups, there might be strong teachings that what the abuser says goes, especially if the abuser is a religious leader or elder.
• LGBTQ+ Individuals: People who identify as LGBTQ+ can also face sexual assault. Predators can target them due to bias, or they may have less support from family or community if they come forward as survivors. They may fear others will blame or ridicule them if they report the abuse.
• Homeless or Runaway Youth: Children or teens on the street are at a very high risk. They have little protection and might trade sex for shelter, leading to abusive situations.

Barriers to Reporting

Across all these groups—children, teens, adults, seniors, or those with disabilities—fear and shame are big barriers. Survivors might think nobody will believe them or that they are at fault. They might rely on the abuser for money, shelter, or other needs. They might fear losing their job, status, or family.

Emotional Hurdles

Some survivors blame themselves, thinking they “asked for it” or should have fought harder. This is false. The abuser is always at fault. Others might feel deep shame or want to forget it ever happened. They may not realize that the law views them as someone who has been harmed and can receive help.

Cultural and Language Barriers

Reporting can be scary for immigrants or people who speak limited English. They might fear deportation or not know how to talk to the police. They might also come from places where authorities do not help, so they worry it is the same here. However, local groups can offer interpreters or direct them to help for free in many areas.

Lack of Trust in the System

Some survivors, especially in communities that have had bad experiences with law enforcement or institutions, do not trust the system. They might think, “I will be attacked again or humiliated,” or “Cops do not help us.” This can keep them silent. However, more advocates and abuse services try to make the process safer for survivors each year.

You Are Not Alone—Call a Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Sexual assault is a serious problem that affects children, teens, adults, seniors, and people with disabilities. It can happen in any family, any neighborhood, any culture. It is never the survivor’s fault. Everyone deserves to live free from fear and harm. If you suspect that you or someone you love has suffered an injury, remember that help is available.

Talking to a trusted person or a professional can be the first step to healing. If you want to explore your legal choices, a sexual abuse attorney can guide you. They will provide a safe place to explain your story and support your standing up for your rights. They are ready to listen if you decide to take legal action or need more information.

No matter how scary it seems, reaching out is an act of courage and hope. You matter, and so does your well-being. By speaking up, we can hold wrongdoers accountable and create safer communities. If you or someone you care about needs help, consider contacting a sexual abuse lawyer or seeking local resources for survivors. You deserve a future free from abuse, and we can work together to make that future possible.