Overview: Intimate Partner Sexual Assault

Among college students, studies show that nine out of ten sexual assaults are perpetrated by someone known to the victim in some capacity—friend, a date, an acquaintance, a classmate, a family member, a caretaker, a coworker, or an intimate partner. ¹Statistics have shown that a significant number of victims are sexually assaulted by an intimate partner. One study shows that of people who report sexual violence, 64% of women and 16% of men were raped, physically assaulted, or stalked by an intimate partner. This includes a current or former spouse, cohabitating partner, boyfriend/girlfriend, or date. ¹

Recognizing Sexual Assault

In intimate relationships, sexual assault can become one of the many abusive tactics a person will use to maintain power and control over their partner. Often, it is difficult for a victim of sexual assault in these situations to recognize his or her experience as sexual assault. Indeed, sexual coercion is embedded in a pattern of other forms of abuse—emotional, verbal, or physical. This can be in the form of

• pressure to engage in sexual activity,
• pressure to engage in sexual acts with which a person is uncomfortable,
• threats (I might have to get sex somewhere else if I don’t get it from you),
• or guilt trips (I am so attracted to you that I can’t help myself, I need sex to relieve stress, etc).

Often, because of the dynamic of power and abuse that is utilized in an unhealthy relationship, it may be harder for a victim of intimate partner sexual assault to come forward and seek help. This person becomes caught in a cycle of violence characteristic of abusive relationships. He or she may feel isolated, embarrassed, shamed, guilty, afraid of the partner, afraid to leave, and/or depressed. It is important that victims of intimate partner violence receive the same compassion and care as other survivors of sexual assault. In fact, maintaining safety and seeking help could be more complicated for victims of intimate partner sexual assault. For more information on unhealthy or abusive relationships, please contact the Sexual Assault Educator, Avalon’s Helpline, or the Statewide Hotline or visit The Red Flag Campaign to learn what you can do to help a friend who might be experiencing abuse in a relationship.

• ¹ Fisher, S., Cullen, F., Turner, M., 2000. The Sexual Victimization of College Women. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Justice.