Sexual Violence

Sexual violence (SV) is sexual activity when consent is not obtained or freely given. Consent means granting permission for something to happen or agreeing to do something. SV affects every community and people of all genders, sexual orientations, and ages. Anyone can commit or experience SV, but women are at greater risk of experiencing it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that over 50% (1 in 2) of women have experienced SV. Almost 33% (1 in 3) of men have experienced SV. Almost 33% (1 in 3) of women survivors of sexual violence (SV) face health challenges, including depression, post-traumatic stress, sleep disturbances, and other related conditions. The impact of SV extends beyond the survivor, deeply affecting families and communities.

Sexual violence (SV) is harm or threats to harm someone based on their sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. It may include physical, sexual, psychological, financial, or emotional abuse. GBV can happen to anyone, but women and girls are most at risk.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that survivors of GBV are at greater risk of experiencing depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, substance misuse disorders, and suicide attempts. The effects of GBV extend beyond the survivor. GBV also impacts families and communities.

The data included here reflect visits to Delaware emergency departments made by victims of sexual violence. It is important to note that not all victims seek care following an incident of violence. Additional data on the incidence of sexual violence in Delaware will be added to this site in the future. Other sources that include Delaware specific data are the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS) and the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS), as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Uniform Crime Reporting Program.