Shocking Survey Results Reveal How Many Victims of Sexual Coercion Speak Out

In a thought-provoking survey conducted by Adam & Eve, one of America's most respected sources for adult products, disturbing insights into the topic of sexual coercion have been unveiled. This annual survey not only highlights the prevalence of this issue but also sheds light on victims' willingness to disclose their experiences – or lack thereof.

The Findings

According to the survey results, approximately 60% of participants reported having been subjected to sexual coercion at some point in their lives. Sexual coercion, defined as the act of using force or threats to compel someone into an unwanted sexual situation, is alarmingly common. However, in a twist that might surprise many, the data reveals that only 62% of those who experienced coercion spoke to someone about it.

Communication Breakdown

Delving deeper into these statistics, the survey found that nearly 45% of respondents who disclosed their experiences confided in a friend. Interestingly, the gender divide showed that 53% of male victims and 35% of female victims chose friends as their confidants. Meanwhile, about 10% opted to discuss their experiences with a parent—7% of males and 13% of females. A mere 7% of participants reported the events to authorities, showcasing a detrimental silence surrounding this significant issue. An alarming 39% of victims chose not to share their experiences with anyone at all.

Expert Insights

Dr. Jenni Skyler, PhD, LMFT, and the resident sexologist at Adam & Eve, expressed her disappointment in the survey outcomes while emphasizing their accuracy. "Unfortunately, sexual coercion and abuse often thrive in silence. Victims commonly fear being blamed or doubted, which further perpetuates the cycle of silence." She lamented how many individuals do not realize that sexual coercion is a form of sexual assault and underlined that no one should ever feel pressured to engage in any sexual act against their will.

Dr. Skyler advocates for healthier communication between partners. In a mutually respectful relationship, both individuals should feel comfortable and enthusiastic about their sexual encounters. "It's vital to foster an environment where both partners can openly talk about their comfort levels without fear of backlash," she added.

A Culture of Celebration

Chad Davis, the Director of Marketing for Adam & Eve, emphasizes a culture of consensual celebration surrounding adult relationships. He stated, "For over 50 years, we've encouraged adults to embrace their sexuality joyfully and consensually. Our mission is to enhance and support healthy relationships at all levels."

The survey, executed by an independent third-party company, encompassed responses from over 1,000 American adults aged 18 and older. Sponsored by Adam & Eve, it aims at unraveling the complexities of sexual preferences and practices in contemporary society.

Conclusion

As conversations around sexual coercion and consent become more prevalent, this survey serves as a stark reminder of the challenges victims face when seeking support. It highlights the urgent need for awareness, understanding, and dialogue about sexual coercion and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding this issue.

For further information about Adam & Eve and to explore resources related to sexual health and wellness, visit their official website here. Additionally, those seeking support or to share their own experiences can reach out to professionals who specialize in counseling victims of sexual violence.