Which of the following best describes sexual assault?

The best description of sexual assault is unwanted sexual contact, potentially involving force. This definition encompasses a wide range of non-consensual sexual activities that go beyond just penetration or physical assault with a weapon. It recognizes that sexual assault can include any form of unwanted sexual interaction, which could involve physical force, coercion, or the inability of the victim to consent due to various circumstances, such as intoxication or mental incapacity.

This understanding is critical in addressing the broader context of sexual violence, which is not limited to just rape or attempted rape. By including all unwanted sexual interactions, it highlights the importance of consent and the varying degrees of physical contact that can constitute assault. This definition aligns with legal standards in many jurisdictions and helps in effectively communicating the seriousness of the issue.

The other options are limited in scope, focusing either too narrowly on specific circumstances or mischaracterizing the range of behaviors that fall under sexual assault. For example, defining sexual assault explicitly as an attack with a weapon ignores many forms of assault that do not involve a weapon yet are still profoundly damaging to victims. Similarly, limiting the definition to rape or attempted rape excludes other forms of sexual offenses, while stating it as simply "assault without consent" might lack the clear connection to the