Sex can be a sensitive topic for young people. Ideologies about
sex vary greatly from person to person. Those in happy, healthy
relationships may decide to have sex with their partners - this is
not necessarily a bad thing provided that they are informed and
take the right precautions in terms of use of contraceptives and
preventing sexually transmitted infections. In some situations,
individuals may find themselves coerced or abused into performing
sexual favours by the person they trust. Sexual assault is illegal
and its effects on the victim can be adverse. Such effects include:
physical and emotional trauma, anxiety, loss of confidence and
trust in others, as well as depression.