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Frequently Asked Questions
There are many misconceptions about sexualized violence, and knowing how to support yourself or someone else can feel overwhelming. Here are some common questions.
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You Are Not Alone.
If you don’t see your question here, please reach out to our team [email protected].
What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault is any sexual activity without consent. This can include rape, groping, kissing, or other unwanted sexual touch. It can happen through force, manipulation, coercion, or when someone cannot consent (e.g. drunk, high, asleep).
What is sexualized violence?
Sexualized violence is a broader term that includes sexual assault, harassment, exploitation, manipulation, and abuse. It’s not about sexual desire—it’s about power and control.
How often do sexual assaults occur?
Sexual assault is common, though underreported. Fewer than 1 in 10 cases are reported to police. One in three women and one in two trans people will experience sexual assault in their lifetime.
Who is most at risk?
Anyone can be assaulted, regardless of gender, age, race, or background. However, young women, people living in poverty, trans and gender-diverse people, and people with disabilities are at higher risk.
Am I more likely to be assaulted by a stranger or someone I know?
Most assaults are committed by someone the survivor knows—friends, family, acquaintances, or partners—and often occur in private spaces such as homes or cars.
Don’t men get assaulted as much as women and trans people?
Men can experience sexual violence, but women and trans people are disproportionately targeted. Most perpetrators are men.
Isn’t sexual assault usually by strangers in dark alleys?
No. Most assaults happen in homes or other familiar places, and the perpetrator is often someone the survivor knows.
If someone is drunk or wearing revealing clothes, are they “asking for it”?
Never. No one asks to be assaulted. Clothing, alcohol, or behavior never cause sexual assault—the perpetrator’s actions do.
Can a wife charge her husband with sexual assault?
Yes. Since 1983 in Canada, it has been illegal for a spouse to force sex without consent. Consent is required in all relationships.
Can women sexually assault women?
Yes. While most perpetrators are men, people of all genders can commit sexual assault.
Are false reports of sexual assault common?
No. False reports are rare (2–8%), similar to other crimes. The far greater issue is under-reporting.
What is consent?
Consent is a clear, ongoing, enthusiastic “yes” to any activity. It can be withdrawn at any time. Silence, pressure, or fear is not consent.
Why is consent important?
It ensures everyone feels safe and respected. Asking for consent shows care and prevents harm.
How do I ask for consent?
Check in often, use clear words, and notice body language. Examples:
“Do you want to keep going?”
“Are you comfortable if I…?”Can someone consent if they’re drunk, high, or asleep?
No. People cannot legally or ethically consent if they’re impaired, unconscious, or coerced.
What can I do to prevent sexual assault?
Challenge harmful attitudes, practice and promote consent, respect boundaries, and support social change that rejects violence and inequality.
How can I support someone who has been assaulted?
* Believe them.
* Remind them it’s not their fault.
* Respect their choices (police, medical care, counselling, etc.).
* Let them know they’re not alone.What are common impacts of sexual violence?
Survivors may experience anxiety, depression, flashbacks, physical symptoms, sleep issues, or difficulties in relationships. Healing is possible, but looks different for everyone.
What are boundaries?
Boundaries are personal limits that help us feel safe and respected—like comfort with physical touch, topics of conversation, or how we share space.
What if someone doesn’t respect my boundaries?
It’s never your fault. You can try communicating, seek support from trusted people, or, if necessary, leave harmful relationships.
How can I respect other people’s boundaries?
Ask what’s okay.
Accept “no” without guilt or pressure.
Check in regularly.
Take responsibility if you cross a boundary.How does Canadian law define sexual assault?
Any unwanted sexual act without consent, regardless of force.
What is the legal age of consent?
Ages 12–13: can consent with someone less than 2 years older.
Ages 14–15: can consent with someone less than 5 years older.
Under 18: cannot consent to sex with someone in authority (teacher, coach, babysitter).Is sexting legal for youth under 18?
Sharing private nudes between youth under 18 can be legal under certain conditions (only of themselves, only shared privately, with consent, and with peers under 18).
What if my intimate images are shared without consent?
It is against the law. Sites like needhelpnow.ca can help remove them.
How does media influence our views of sexual violence?
The media shapes how we see gender, power, and relationships. It often spreads harmful stereotypes (e.g. “men can’t control themselves,” “women are always victims”).
How can I think critically about the media?
Ask questions like:
Who benefits from this message?
What stereotypes are being reinforced?
Is consent shown?
Whose voices are missing?How can we work together to end sexualized violence?
Promote consent culture in daily life.
Challenge racism, sexism, homophobia, transantagonism, ableism, and other systems of oppression.
Respect boundaries and hold each other accountable.
Support survivors without judgment.
Sexualized violence is never the survivor's fault.
You are not alone. Support is available.
