Visual Sexual Abuse
Our culture is inundated with sexually charged or sexually explicit images. Being exposed to unwanted sexual content visually is sexual abuse. Some examples of Visual Sexual Abuse can include: unwanted or uninvited exposure to sexually explicit images, sexting/airdropping, exhibitionism/flashing, nudity or improper dress at home, and performing sexual acts while non-consenting individual are present.
Visual exposure to sexually explicit programming can be a form of sexual abuse. A roommate, friend, family member, or significant other exposing someone else to pornography or sexually explicit programming can cause discomfort and trauma because there is a form of helplessness or discomfort. Not being given the opportunity to consent or decline exposure to sexual content is a violation.
Children are especially vulnerable because their sexual development is still in process and exposure to sexual themes at different stages can leave emotional and physical impacts on their development. The prevalence of and availability of sexual content make an already confusing topic more complex. Children being exposed to sexual content by others is a reportable event and our duty is to protect and educate children in developmentally appropriate ways. Children can also suffer trauma from in unintentional exposure to sexual content as a result of unmonitored use of connected devices. Parental nudity in the household whether in the bathroom or other wise can also be a confusing and traumatic experience for children at certain ages.
As adults we must be aware of what we are watching to avoid doing harm to others. We cannot assume that our comfort level is shared by others. Being able to say to another adult, “I don't want to watch that. I'm not trying to control what you watch, but let's not have this violation.” is a good way of making your boundaries know and avoiding being unintentionally traumatized by others. If those around you do not respect your wishes on this topic you need to take further steps to separate yourself from abuse and seek help.
Another form of Visual Sexual Abuse is that there could be masturbation in the home that was not done in private or forced observation of sexual acts or body parts. This type of victimization can happen between siblings, exhibitionist strangers, even spouses. Not allowing privacy to another person during bathing, changing, or other intimate moments is also a form of Visual Sexual Abuse.
If you have questions or concerns about Visual Sexual Abuse, please contact a mental health provider to support you. If you are in danger or are being victimized contact Law Enforcement or emergency services to ensure your safety.
FAQ’s
Q: Does sexual abuse have to involve physical contact?
A: No, sexual abuse can happen without being touched or even being in the same space as the abuser. Sexual abuses can include words spoken, sights seen, and acts done covertly, all without physical contact.
Q: What is a Trauma?
A: Trauma can be defined as an emotional response to an experience that is distressing or disturbing. With sexual trauma this often includes experiencing a “No choice, No voice” event. Experiencing something where there's a loss of control, coercion or pressure, a perceived helplessness.
Q: Can I heal from this?
A: Yes! If you have experienced something like this, you do not have to be stuck with trauma for the rest of your life. With advanced techniques like Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, that help to heal the impact of those events, recovery is within reach. These new techniques limit your exposure to your memory of the past event in session and expedites the healing process. Therapist with these advanced techniques can really help you to process trauma without a high level of distress in recalling the memories. Sometimes we are able to work with clients without them needing to retell the story until it no longer triggers intense emotions.
Hear more about this topic on our podcast The Reimagined Life: Episode 5: 5 Types of Sexual Abuse You May Not Be Aware Of (ft. Cristina Ally)