What distinguishes sexual harassment from sexual assault?

The distinction between sexual harassment and sexual assault is primarily based on the nature of the behavior involved. Sexual harassment encompasses a range of behaviors that create a hostile or intimidating environment, often characterized by inappropriate comments, gestures, or advances that do not necessarily involve physical contact. In contrast, sexual assault specifically involves non-consensual physical contact or acts of a sexual nature, which can include anything from unwanted touching to rape. This differentiation is crucial for understanding the legal and social implications of each behavior.

By understanding that sexual harassment can occur without any physical contact while sexual assault explicitly requires it, one can better grasp the seriousness and individual context of each issue. While both are considered illegal offenses and share a common theme of violation against an individual, they fall under different categories within the legal and social framework, leading to different consequences and responses.