Sexual Assault Awareness Month — What is Assault?

Written By Virago Wellness

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This is a very heavy topic that effects so many people and women suffer sexual assault at such high rates that it’s an important topic to delve into. A common question we see clients grapple with is “Was I sexually assaulted?” To help with this, we are going break down some common terms and definitions to explore what is considered sexual assault. That does require some specific terminology so please be aware that the blog post does contain specific definitions and descriptions. Language is very important in the healing process so it’s important to note that we will use some specific language here like survivor and victim and you should use whatever language feels most appropriate for yourself. 

If you would like to read this post but worry about triggers here are some suggestions:

  1. Take a moment for grounding and centering yourself before and after you read the post

  2. Make sure you read the post when you have time to take care of any feelings that come up 

  3. Read the post with your therapist

  4. Remember you can always choose not to read or stop reading if you need

  5. If you are looking for support around sexual assault or adverse sexual experiences, learn more about our support groups

Defining Sexual Assault 

Sexual assault includes a wide range of non-consensual or unwanted sexual contact or behavior. Sexual assault is commonly thought of as a violent attack but it’s important to note that the degree of force or aggression is irrelevant. The primary aspects of sexual assault are: it is unwanted, occurring without consent, and the contact is of a sexual nature, either sexual intent of the aggressor or involving the sexual parts of the body of the victim. According to RAINN: “The term sexual assault refers to sexual contact or behavior that occurs without explicit consent of the victim.” 

Essentially, sexual assault is any sexual contact without your consent and that can vary greatly. Sexual assault can include, but is not limited to: rape, unwanted touching or groping, kissing, or other unwanted sexual contact. Sexual assault does not have to be a gross assault but can be smaller occurrences that are also harmful and negatively impactful. Rape is a specific type of sexual assault involving unwanted penetration of the body in any way with an object or body part of a perpetrator. 

Remember  that the laws that define terms like “gross sexual assault”, “unlawful sexual contact”, “statutory rape”, and “consent” can vary greatly state to state. Maine separates gross sexual assault and unlawful sexual contact. You can learn more here about how these are defined state to state.  Legal terms are important if you are considering legal action and should be discussed with a lawyer. 

Consent 

Consent is another important term to consider related to this topic. Consent is your explicit permission for something. The absence of a no does not equate to giving consent and that consent can be withdrawn at any time for any reason. A consensual act becomes assault if consent is withdrawn and that boundary is not respected.  Consent must be given freely, it can’t be pressured or coerced.

Here is a brief and light hearted video explaining consent using the analogy of offering a cup of tea. There are legal aspects of consent as well, especially regarding how a state defines consent when a person is impaired by substances. Consent is a critical aspect of any interaction, especially those of a sexual nature. It is an affirmative and enthusiastic agreement, freely given by all parties involved.

It’s not uncommon for people to grapple with how these terms, phrases, and definitions do or do not apply to their own personal experiences. If you are not ready or don’t want to use a specific term or phrase for any reason, you do not have to. It’s ok to ask a provider to use terms that feel best to you. At Virago Wellness, we understand that this will vary from person to person which is why we have intentionally titled our support groups for sexual trauma or adverse sexual experiences. It’s our hope that this will help women who have had any type of mistreatment feel comfortable joining our groups. 

Regardless of the terms, the types of experiences can cause significant psychological and emotional harm. And women have higher rates of PTSD because they are more likely to experience interpersonal and sexual trauma. At Virago Wellness we have multiple options to support you no matter what stage of the healing process you are in. From targeted individual therapy, to support and therapy groups, we are here for you as you navigate moving forward from sexual trauma of any kind. 

Are you interested in connecting with other women who’ve also experienced sexual trauma, mistreatment, or assault? Our Spring Support Group for Women is now enrolling and starts Wednesday 4/30/2025. Find out more here.

Here are some other local resources we love:

Virago Wellness
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Phases of Trauma Treatment