ABSTRACT
Non-consensual sexual contact includes any situation where full consent for whatever activity of a sexual nature that occurred was withheld or could not fully be given for whatever reason. The Institute of Psychosexual Medicine teaches to approach a problem in a spirit of mutual ignorance and shared endeavour. Sexual abuse and assault involve creating or exploiting a power imbalance. Sexual pleasure triggered feelings of self-blame and shame; therefore any feeling of arousal became linked with guilt and distress. Even anticipating sex triggered painful emotions so this became extended to sexual approaches, even foreplay or affection. Genital examination is a very powerful tool in working with survivors of sexual trauma. A lack of sexual arousal or libido is distressing, as if withholding from a partner who may be love and caring. Self-blame and self-disgust are very common after sexual assault, and all aspects of sexual functioning may be affected.
