Domestic violence and sexual violence is often perceived to be interchangeable. Sexual violence can occur by an otherwise trusted family member, spouse, or significant other at home. However, domestic violence and sexual violence are very distinct with different consequences.

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is defined as the occurrence of when a partner or family member abuses another person physically, emotionally, financially, or sexually. The violence may occur only once, but is normally behavior that is repeated.

Sexual assault, a long-time societal problem, can occur anywhere: at home, at work, on campus, in a public setting, and even in the military. Not only does sexual assault negatively impact the person affected, but also the person committing the assault. The person affected by sexual assault may suffer emotionally and physically, while the person committing the assault may face life-changing consequences.

Types of Sexual Assault and Violence

Sexual assault and violence comes in many forms, even though the emotional hardships and unwanted consequences still follow. Several types of sexual assault include, but are not limited to:

College students are returning to their campuses and parties will soon begin. Unfortunately, where there are parties there are also instances of sexual assault and violence. However, these instances can easily be prevented by abiding by college rules and policies.

Sexual Assault Statistics

In Illinois, as many as 20 percent of female students and 6 percent of male students experience some type of sexual assault or violence while enrolled in college. Moreover, nearly one quarter of female students are affected by sexual assault and violence, and therefore need to turn to certain organizations for help to return to a better life.