International Day of Non-Violence: Sexual Violence on Men, Women and Children

The 2^nd October marks the International Day of Non-Violence. Statistics released by the South African Police Service (SAPS) for the period of April 2018 – March 2019, show that 52, 420 sexual offences were recorded (SAPS, 2019).

Reportedly, 45.6% of South African women experience physical and sexual intimate partner violence (IPV) and non-partner sexual violence. The mental health implications are extensive, and include possible depression, anxiety, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse (Mpani and Nsibande, 2015).

The South African Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse (SAMSOSA) reports that in 2012, 19.4% of sexual assault victims were men (Maseko, 2015). This figure is likely much higher, as many cases are not reported due to the shame and mockery victims are subjected to. Male victims of sexual crimes demonstrate an increased risk of PTSD, depression, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts and behaviour, and intimacy challenges.

The University of Cape Town’s Children’s Institute notes that 41% of all reported rape cases account for child victimisation. Immediate psychological symptoms may include shock, fear, anxiety, guilt, withdrawal, and symptoms of PTSD. Long-term effects extending into adulthood may include depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-mutilation, suicidal thoughts and behaviour, and substance abuse (Jamieson et al, 2017).

There are organisations available for men, women and children survivors of sexual assault: