Violence & abuse
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Sexual violence
Sexual violence can sometimes be difficult to define and can look different. For example, your partner may pressure you to do things you don't want or feel ready to do. It can also be someone groping you, asking you questions about sex when you don't want to talk about it, or sending you dickpics.
What is sexual violence?
Sexual violence is when someone performs sexual acts against someone who has not given their consent. It can be rape, grooming, or someone having sex with you while you are asleep or drunk, for example.
It could also be that someone gropes you, asks you questions about sex when you don't want to talk about it or sends you dickpics. For example, it could be someone you don't know, a partner, an ex, a friend or someone in your family who sexually assaults you. When someone in your family sexually assaults you, it is called incest.
Subjecting someone to sexual violence is a serious crime. In Sweden, there is a law that says all sex should be voluntary. If it is not, it is a crime.
Common to feel shame
Sexual violence can take different forms. It can be someone pressuring you, forcing you or threatening you to do things you don't want to do. Many people who experience sexual violence feel shame and blame themselves. But it's never your fault if someone crosses your boundaries.
Sexual violence can sometimes be difficult to define. For example, your partner may pressure you to do things you don't want or feel ready to do. It can also be someone groping you, asking you questions about sex when you don't want to talk about it, or sending you dickpics.
In Sweden there is a law that says that all sex should be voluntary. If it is not, it is a crime. The person you have sex with must find out if you want to have sex. You also always have the right to stop having sex whenever you want, even if you wanted to have sex in the first place.
If you are subjected to violence
Remember, no one is allowed to hurt you! It's never okay, and it's never your fault if someone crosses your boundaries and violates you.
It's good to tell someone you trust about what you're being subjected to, no matter what kind of violence it is. For example, you can talk to a counsellor at school, a teacher, or another adult you trust.
There are many different associations and organisations working to help people who are victims of violence. You are always welcome to chat with us at Tjejjouren West - we are here for you!
If the situation is urgent and you are in immediate danger, always call 112.