Aging and Elder Sexual Abuse

Aging and Elder Sexual Abuse

Elder abuse is an intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or another person that causes harm or serious risk of harm to an older adult, typically aged 60 or older. It manifests in various forms, including physical abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, and sexual abuse. The intersection of age with disability,…

Sexual Violence Against Women

Sexual Violence Against Women

The experiences of women are deeply influenced by a historical and ongoing struggle for bodily autonomy and respect. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly one in three women worldwide (approximately 30%) have endured physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner or non-partner at some point in their lives.1,2 Violence against women, particularly…

Tonic Immobility and Sexual Arousal During Sexual Violence

Tonic Immobility and Sexual Arousal During Sexual Violence

Tonic Immobility Experiencing assault is a traumatic event that can initiate intense reactions in the body beyond a person’s control. These reactions are commonly known as the fight, flight, freeze, or fawn response, and understanding these responses is crucial for survivors and those who support them. The body’s reaction to trauma is natural and no…

Emotional Abuse

Emotional Abuse

Abuse is the act of causing harm or distress, in an attempt to exert control, especially for one’s own advantage or pleasure. Emotional abuse is when someone engages in behavior intended to cause another person mental and emotional harm in order to exert control. It can happen in any kind of relationship, including but not…

Barriers to Reporting & Police Relations within the Indigenous Community 

Barriers to Reporting & Police Relations within the Indigenous Community 

For Indigenous communities, the rates of sexual violence are alarmingly high compared to the general population.1, 2 A majority of these crimes are committed by individuals outside of Indigenous communities, compounding the historical and systemic challenges faced by Indigenous people.2 Despite the gravity of these crimes, barriers to reporting and strained relations with law enforcement…