Sexual assault refers to any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without explicit consent of the victim. It includes a wide range of behaviors, from unwanted touching or fondling to rape. Some forms of sexual assault include:

• Attempted rape
• Fondling or unwanted sexual touching
• Forcing a victim to perform sexual acts, such as oral sex or penetrating the perpetrator’s body
• Penetration of the victim’s body, also known as rape

Its important to note that not all sexual assault is rape, and the term "rape" is often used as a legal definition to specifically include sexual penetration without consent. Sexual assault can happen to anyone, but women and transgender people are overwhelmingly the targets. Approximately eight out of 10 sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim, such as in the case of intimate partner sexual violence or acquaintance rape.

Its also important to note that sexual assault is an extremely underreported crime. If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, help is available. The National Sexual Assault Hotline, operated by RAINN, provides confidential 24/7 support and can be reached at 800-656-HOPE (4673) .