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Asker

To Sam

Being Sexually assaulted

Hi sam, I have a few questions as I am unsure whether I have been sexually assaulted or not. My ex boyfriend used to try and touch me sexually and when I said no he would beg me and plead me. He used to say it was an excuse of me not trusting him but that is far from the truth. He always got upset and or angry at me when I declined his touch and begged and begged until I eventually gave in because I felt pressured and upset. I didnt want to do it. The next day i regretted it because I knew it wasnt what i wanted. Please help me figure this out.

Ask Sam

Sam

Hi there,

It’s never okay for someone to force or pressure you into doing something sexual. If you’re made to feel like you can’t say no or that you have to do it, then that’s a form of sexual assault.

Lots of young people talk to Childline about feeling confused after a sexual assault, and some young people say that they blame themselves. What happened wasn’t your fault though, and it’s never okay for someone to pressure you or get angry for not wanting to do something.

You don’t have to cope with what’s happened alone. Writing letters is a good way to start to process how you’re feeling, it can also really help to speak to people you trust about what’s happened. Remember, you can always get support from Childline. Sometimes talking about what’s happened can help you to understand things more and feel more confident about the future.

We’ve got lots of information about sex and consent which can help you to think about what’s happened. It can sometimes also help to read about what others have experienced, and you can do that any time on the message boards.

You’re not alone in what’s happened, and you should never have to cope by yourself. However you’re feeling, we’re here to support you.

Take care,

Sam

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