The information shared here is intended to provide a common understanding of terms that are often used at CARE and in our education and training programs. Many of the definitions below align with California law and UC policy. We also understand that law and policy often set a low bar, and many harmful behaviors are not yet considered criminal or violations of policy.

An important note about the term sexual violence: sexual violence is recognized as an umbrella term that includes not only sexual assault, but also dating/intimate partner violence and stalking. The term sexual violence is used throughout UC policy to include several types of behaviors, it’s also used by CARE staff when talking about sexual assault, dating/intimate partner violence, and stalking.