By Adesuwa Ewoigbokhan

Young adults are at high risk of sexual bullying and harassment; these behaviours can, and do, happen at home, school, church, social groups, or online.

Sexualised bullying from peer to peer is a pervasive and insidious issue that affects countless young people worldwide; boys are just as much victims of sexual bullying as girls.
Sexual bullying encompasses any unwanted or coercive behaviour of a sexual nature, including verbal comments, physical contact, or online harassment. It can occur in person or through digital platforms. It is any behaviour which degrades a person, single out an individual using sexual language, gestures or assault leaving victims feeling vulnerable, distressed, ashamed, and powerless
The impact of such behaviour can undermine a victim’s dignity and safety, affecting not only the individual but also their relationships and their emotional well-being.

Sexual bullying is alarmingly common among youth as studies suggest that a significant percentage of young people experience some form of sexual harassment or bullying during their school years. Like unwelcome touching, sexual comments about the person’s appearance, or forced sexual acts. Pressurising the individual to send their nude photos, to do something they do not want to do, using emotional blackmail such as “you would do this if you love me,” threatening to end a relationship if they do not oblige: sending the images to others without consent is a form of sexual bullying.

The effects of sexual bullying can be devastating and long-lasting. Victims may experience emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They may also experience social isolation, decreased self-esteem, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. Additionally, sexual bullying can lead to physical symptoms, such as headaches, self-harming, eating disorder or stomach problems.

Several factors contribute to the hidden nature of sexual bullying- Fear of retaliation or further harassment can prevent victims especially the girls from speaking out. Shame, guilt, or embarrassment and the risk of being ostracised can also silence victims. They also worry about how adults will react. The lack of awareness may make them not believed but rather blamed.

It’s crucial to create safe and supportive environments where youths feel comfortable reporting incidents with plenty of warmth, love, reassurance and to be reminded that it’s not their fault.
So, keep your emotions in check and let them guide you on what kind of help they need from you.