The impact of sexual violence on marriage

Abstract

This study examines the versatile impacts of sexual violence on a canonical marriage. The study revolves around sexually violent occurrences during adulthood both when experienced prior to marriage as well as when experienced during marriage. It also takes into consideration sexual violence when occurring from the spouse as well as when occurring from a third party. Notably, the study considers the perspective of the survivor and the perpetrator. In order to provide an in-depth analysis on the matter, this dissertation provides a thorough examination of sexual violence and canonical marriage separately, then culminating them together to investigate the impact sexual violence has on marriage. Firstly, this study analysis how sexual violence is defined and what forms it may take whilst investigating the causes of sexual violence and the effects it has on individuals. The dissertation then inquires on the theological understanding of marriage both as a contract and as a covenant. From a contractual aspect, the dissertation studies issues relating to consent and how this may be compromised. From the covenantal aspect, the dissertation explores the true meaning of marriage and how it differs from past understandings, whilst discussing the several elements of marriage and how sexuality in marriage is a vital component of a healthy and loving marriage. Ultimately, the study explores how sexual violence effects a marriage both when occurring prior to marriage and during a marriage. Ultimately, it results that sexual violence is incompatible with marriage and disrupts the fundamental principles of holy matrimony. This may lead to situations where persons are unable to contract marriage.