Abstract
Sexual violence is a significant human rights and public health issue, with negative consequences for health and well-being. Definitions of sexual violence may include sexual assault; forced sexual activity perpetrated by intimate partners, strangers, or individuals known to a person and sexual harassment; and unwanted behaviors that make people feel uncomfortable because of their sexual nature and that serve to offend, humiliate, or intimidate. Sexual violence is not a reflection of sexual desire; it is a hostile and aggressive act, most commonly perpetrated by men against women, reflecting feelings of anger and hostility toward women, as well as a need to exert power and control. As such, sexual violence is grounded in misogyny, gender-based discrimination, and inequality. Rates of sexual violence are higher in the transgender population compared with the cisgender population and contribute to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidality reported by trans people.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | The Sage Encyclopedia of Trans Studies |
| Editors | Abbie E. Goldberg, Genny Beemyn |
| Place of Publication | U.S. |
| Publisher | Sage Publications |
| Pages | 1-4 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9781544393827 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781544393810 |
| Publication status | Published - 2021 |
