Question 1

What is sexual violence?

Accepted Answer

Sexual violence is the term for any type of unwanted sexual contact. This includes but is not limited to: sexual abuse, sexual harassment, sexual assault or rape. Sexual violence can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, geography, ability, appearance, sexual orientation, and gender identity. It impacts everyone--the survivor, their families, significant others, and their community.

Question 2

What is consent?

Accepted Answer

Consent is giving permission for something to happen or agreeing to do something. Consent is freely given. Sexual contact without consent is a type of sexual violence. Reasons why someone cannot consent includes: victim’s age, illness, mental or physical disability, being asleep or unconscious, or being too intoxicated through voluntary or involuntary use of alcohol or drugs. Also, someone may not be able to consent because the perpetrator uses or threatens with weapons or physical violence, intimidation, pressure, or misuse of authority.

Question 3

What is the age of consent?

Accepted Answer

In Pennsylvania, a person less than 13 years old cannot grant consent to sexual activity. People between the ages of 13 and 15 cannot consent to sexual activity with anyone who is four or more years older than them; it would be considered statutory rape. People ages 16 and older can legally consent to sexual activity with anyone they choose, as long as the other person does not have authority over them. In Pennsylvania this is called Institutional sexual assault and happens when sexual activity occurs with an employee/agent of a: school (teacher/coach), state or county jail, personal care/group home, or other licensed residential facilities serving youth.

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FREE & CONFIDENTIAL SUPPORT FOR
VICTIMS OF CRIME & THEIR LOVED ONES