Sexual assault is any type of sexual activity or contact that you do not consent to. Sexual assault can happen through physical force or threats of force or if the attacker gave the victim drugs or alcohol as part of the assault. Sexual assault includes rape and sexual coercion. (Office on Women’s Health)

simply put, sexual assault is any non-consensual physical, verbal or emotional sexual contact or comments. this can be done by anyone to anyone.

that being said, Ann Burgess - a seasoned professor at Boston College’s William F. Connell School of Nursing, developed a theory which highlights patterns and traits that are common amongst perpetrators. the purpose of this theory isn’t to point fingers at anyone but to make individuals aware of how their past experiences could have an impact on their current and future behaviours.

below is a highlight of Burgess’ theory

to learn more about Ann Burgess’ theory, buy her book here

please Report incidents of sexual assault by calling your city’s sexual assault hotline or 911