Understanding Terms Related to Sexual Abuse, Sexual Violence, and Survivors’ Rights

When discussing sexual abuse and sexual violence, it’s important to understand the differences between the terms often used. Whether in a legal, medical, or advocacy setting, having clarity on these definitions can help survivors, families, and advocates navigate the complex systems meant to protect them. This guide breaks down key terms like sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual abuse under California law—and explains the broader concept of sexual violence as defined by national and global organizations. If you have concerns or questions, please contact the sex abuse lawyers at Chain | Cohn | Clark.

Terms Related to Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence

There are a number of terms related to sexual abuse and sexual violence, so it can be confusing trying to sort them all out. We hope this brief guide is helpful.

• Sexual assault is a legal term [defined in Section 340.15(b)(1)] of the California Code of Civil Procedure] and includes rape, any form of nonconsensual sexual penetration, and any sexual activity with children under the age of consent (18 years old).
• Sexual battery is also a legal term. Section 243.4 of the California Penal Code describes it as nonconsensual touching “for the purpose of sexual arousal, sexual gratification, or sexual abuse.”
• Sexual harassment is covered in Section 51.9 of the California Civil Code. Sexual harassment occurs when, within a “business, service, or professional relationship,” someone makes sexual demands or engages “in other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature or of a hostile nature based on gender.” These actions must be “unwelcome and pervasive or severe.”
• Sexual abuse often involves not just one incident but a pattern of behavior. Sexual abuse can occur within a relationship with a partner (e.g., domestic abuse from a spouse).
• Child sexual abuse. Because of their age and inexperience, children are more vulnerable to sexual abuse than adults. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) (an organization created by Congress in 2000) defines child sexual abuse as “any interaction between a child and an adult (or another child) in which the child is used for the sexual stimulation of the perpetrator or an observer. Sexual abuse can include both touching and non-touching behaviors. Non-touching behaviors can include voyeurism (trying to look at a child’s naked body), exhibitionism, or exposing the child to pornography.”
• Sexual violence is a general, non-legal term that, according to RAINN, “refers to crimes like sexual assault, rape, and sexual abuse.” The World Health Organization defines sexual violence as “any sexual act, attempt to obtain a sexual act, or other act directed against a person’s sexuality using coercion, by any person regardless of their relationship to the victim, in any setting.” Sexual violence includes:
  • Sexual assault
  • Intimate partner sexual violence
  • Child sexual abuse
  • Abuse by doctors, teachers, and police officers
  • Elderly sexual abuse
  • Sexual harassment
  • Stalking
  • Forced viewing of pornography
  • Using digital technology to stalk, threaten, or harass
  • Catfishing (using a false online identity to start a romantic relationship)
  • Incest
  • Forced prostitution

The legal team at Chain | Cohn | Clark includes experienced California sexual assault lawyers and sexual harassment lawyers. If you were the victim of any form of sexual violence, contact our sexual abuse law firm to learn more about your rights and how our Bakersfield sex abuse lawyers can help you.

What Are the Warning Signs of Child Sexual Abuse?

The warning signs of child sexual abuse may vary depending on the age of the child and may include:

• Bruising or bleeding in the genital areas, or blood on underwear or bedding
• Acquiring a sexually transmitted disease
• Age-inappropriate knowledge of or talk about sexual topics
• Fear of particular persons
• Fear of being away from parents or guardians
• Regressing to outgrown childhood behaviors
• Changes in eating habits or personality
• Losing interest in friends and activities
• Unexplained health problems
• Nightmares

RAINN provides a complete list of child sexual abuse warning signs. RAINN emphasizes that “The most important thing to keep in mind when looking for signs of child sexual abuse is to keep an eye on sudden changes in behavior. Trust your gut and don’t ignore your feelings if something seems off.”

Who Is Likely to Be a Sexual Abuser?

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 91% of child sexual abuse is carried out by a family member or someone the child knows. The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey conducted by the CDC found that most sexual violence is perpetrated by someone that the victim knows. The following table presents statistics on female rape victims as an example. Note that victims who were raped multiple times may be counted more than once in the survey.

Female Rape Victims

Trust the Legal Team at Chain | Cohn | Clark in Bakersfield

Understanding the different forms of sexual violence is crucial for survivors and those seeking to support them. Whether the harm came from a trusted partner, a family member, a professional, or a stranger, survivors have legal rights and pathways to justice. The experienced attorneys at Chain | Cohn | Clark are committed to helping survivors of sexual assault, abuse, and harassment in Bakersfield and throughout California. If you or someone you love has been impacted, we are here to offer guidance, support, and the strong advocacy you deserve.