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    Teen FAQ

    For over 10 years, teens have been asking us questions on every topic imaginable. While we are no longer taking new questions, we have a wealth of information we would like to share with teenagers.

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    Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Emotional Issues > Q&A
    Posted on: 08/11/2006

    Question

    I'm 16 now and when I was 14 a guy I knew at school held me down and grabbed me really hard between my legs and my breasts. It's not really a big deal compared to people who have been raped, but can this have an effect on my emotions during sexual activity with my boyfriend now? (he is aware of the incident)

    Answer

    Dear Teen: Yes, it certainly could have an effect on your emotions and your behavior during sexual activity. Although you weren't raped and did not have sexual intercourse, you were held down and grabbed in sexual areas against your will which can be traumatizing. You don't say what kind of emotional effects you are noticing, but it could result in you being much more reluctant to be physically close or it may bring up feelings of anxiety. If this is a continuing problem, I would encourage you to talk with your physician or a counselor about your feelings.


    Answered By:
    Joyce Brothers Kart , MFT


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