Increase in Sex Crimes Around the Holidays
The holiday season is supposed to be a joyous season full of love, cheer, and celebration. However, the holidays can also bring about several pain points and areas for concern, especially as it pertains to sex crimes and domestic violence. During holiday gatherings, individuals often celebrate with close family, friends, or coworkers – individuals they know very well. Yet, it is very likely that these individuals you know may be the perpetrators of a terrible and traumatic sex crime.
Common Sex Crimes
In understanding why there is an increase in sex crimes during the holiday season, it is first important to be aware of what some of the common sex crimes are. Sex crimes include but are not limited to:
- Rape or aggravated sexual assault
- Voyeurism
- Indecent exposure
- Child pornography
- Sexual abuse
- Public sexual indecency
- Sexting
- Prostitution
- Child Molestation
- Sexual exploitation
- Sexual conduct with a minor
If you are convicted of a sex crime, you may be subject to jail sentencing and sex offender registration. It is important to contact an experienced Phoenix sex crimes lawyer if you are charged with a sexual offense to learn more about your legal rights.
Why Is There An Increase in Sex Crimes Around the Holidays?
There are few main reasons why there is an increase in sex crimes around the holidays.
- Alcohol: The holiday season creates a very conducive environment for the consumption of alcohol. Whether it’s a champagne toast at the strike of the new year or a festive peppermint Christmas drink, alcohol is no stranger to the season. Unfortunately, drinking alcohol can often times lead to sexual assault. In research conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, it was found that 75% of sexual assault occured when perpetrators were under the influence of alcohol.
- Holiday Stress: Oftentimes, the holidays can place immense financial stress upon people as they seek to give countless gifts to their loved ones. Unfortunately, many people turn to alcohol abuse when they are stressed, which, as aforementioned increases the risk of sexual assault occuring.
- Family and friends: According to the Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network (RAINN), 93% of children who are sexually abused know their perpetrator and 34% are abused by a family member. Furthermore, the potential for not only sex crimes, but also the trauma and reminder of past ones, are heightened during the holiday season when you are surrounded by individuals you are close with.
Warning Signs of Sexual Abuse
It is important to be aware of some of the warning signs that can be indicative that a friend or family member may be suffering as a victim of sexual abuse. Publicly sharing that you have been sexually abused is much easier said than done, and many victims might never share about the traumatizing experience – even with the ones they love most. Here are some warning signs to look out for in others:
- Hypersensitivity
- Avoidance of specific places or situations
- Change in mood or personality
- Bleeding or bruising
- Isolation
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Excess use of drinks or drugs
- Blaming
- Threats of violence
- Self-harming behavior
- Unusual eating habits
- Suicidal thoughts
Stay Safe
While this is not meant to discourage you from celebrating the holidays, it is important to educate yourself about the increase in sex crimes during this time and some warning signs of them. If you or a loved one is a victim of a sex crime, here are some important resources that you can turn to receive support:
