International Encyclopedia of Public Health, 2e - Sexual Violence

There are many forms of sexual violence, with rape and sexual harassment of women and girls being the most common. In many settings, 20–30% of women have been coerced into sex some stage in their lives, and intimate partners the most common group of perpetrators. Sexual violence is rooted in gender power inequalities. Research shows that most rape is motivated by male sexual entitlement and pursuit of pleasure. Prevention of sexual violence is critical, as is providing high-quality services to mitigate the extensive health impact of rape.