by Liz Johnson
Many kinds of danger exist that can result in some form of
trauma for your teenager. One of the most common is sexual
assault. If your teen is allowed to date then this could be
one of the dangers that they might be confronted with. This
form of assault usually takes on one of four guises that are
discussed more fully later in this guide. It is important to
distinguish between rape and sexual assault. The latter
refers to any sexual activity that is done without consent.
The former refers specifically to forced sexual intercourse.
This self-help guide will help you to tackle this issue head
on.
When it comes to teenagers, there are four different types
of sexual assault that they may be subjected to. The first
type typically does not occur while dating unless the teen
is on a “blind” date. This is “Stranger” assault. The next
three types of assault that are considered to be sexual
based are referred to as “Date”, “Acquaintance”, and
“Relationship”. If you are a parent, teacher, or any other
adult that cares for, or works with teenagers, it is
essential that you learn all that you are able to regarding
these types of teenage relationship dangers. Teens can be
hurt emotionally, psychologically, and physically from this
type of situation. Once you learn all that you are able to,
it is important to pass this information on to the
teenager(s) in your life.
Stranger assault - sexual assault by a stranger
Stranger assault is usually not part of relationship
dangers, because the person is not known. However, if your
teen goes on lots of blind dates then this possible form of
sexual assault should be considered. All teens need to be
educated about the dangers out there and equipped with the
knowledge they need to protect themselves. Because as many
as 22% of reported cases of sexual assault on teens involves
someone they have never met before, it is imperative that
they be dissuaded from going on any blind dates.
Sexual Assault by a Date
This form of assault is usually committed by someone with
whom the victim is familiar. If they refuse to participate
in some form of sexual activity and are then forced into
doing so, this would be sexual assault. Some people believe
that other people will say no but actually mean yes. This is
a bad defense however. By threatening the other person,
manipulating them, or even forcing them to perform a sexual
act against their expressed wishes constitutes sexual
assault. Teens should know this so that they are not left
feeling that they are somehow responsible because they did
not fight harder.
Sexual Assault by an Acquaintance
In many cases of teenage dating, sexual assault may be
engaged in by an acquaintance. This is typically not the
person that they are involved in a relationship with, but it
may be a friend or relative of the person that they are
dating. When this occurs, the person committing the act will
likely try to coerce the victim through the means of
manipulation or physical strength. Threats may also occur.
It is important to teach your teenager that any person is
capable of anything and that if they feel uncomfortable,
they should trust the instincts that are occurring. This may
help them to avoid situations in which they are sexually
assaulted in one way or another.
Relationship assault - sexual assault within a relationship
Sexual assault in a relationship is the most common type of
abuse experienced among teenagers. When they are subjected
to this, it is likely that they are also experiencing other
types of abuse by the person that they consider themselves
committed to. It is likely that they may be subjected to
physical conflicts, sexual abuse, and even be abused
emotionally. Many teenagers in these types of situations are
often embarrassed, ashamed, or feel as if they cannot escape
the situation that they are in.
Being a responsible adult in the life of a teen means,
among other things, that you equip yourself with all the
necessary info that is available about teenage relationship
dangers. Sexual assault is very common and the details above
of the four types might just help you to help a teen avoid
much heartache and grief.
Liz Johnson is an recognize expert on relationship
problems. If you have enjoyed reading this article. You
can find more useful tips, advice and helpful information on
her website on relationship self help
You can get a unique content version of this article.
