The belief that women are more often sexually assaulted by men of colour or working class men is a stereotype rooted in racism and classism. Men who commit sexual assault can be the doctors, teachers, employers, co-workers, lawyers, husbands, or relatives of the women they assault. The Criminal Code definition of sexual assault includes a number of acts ranging from unwanted sexual touching, to sexual violence resulting in wounding, maiming or endangering the life of the victim. Most sexual assaults are committed by a man known to the victim. Unless she is physically harmed, a sexual assault victim will not suffer any long-term effects.
Any sexual assault can have serious effects on women's health and well-being.
A Canadian survey found that nine out of ten incidents of violence against women have an emotional effect on the victim. Women who have been sexually assaulted feel anger, fear and can become more cautious and less trusting. Women who have experienced a history of victimization are at high risk for developing lifetime mental health problems. Under the law, women have the right to say no to any form of sex, even in a marriage or dating relationship. Although sexual assault within relationships has been illegal in Canada since 1983, few women report such incidents to police.