What does the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) define as sexual abuse?

The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) specifically defines sexual abuse to include various forms of sexual conduct that occur within prisons and correctional facilities. The most comprehensive understanding of sexual abuse under PREA encompasses any sexual contact or coerced sexual activity that occurs between inmates and staff members or between inmates themselves. This definition includes not only acts of force or coercion but also situations of manipulation and exploitation, acknowledging the unique power dynamics present in correctional environments.

While inappropriate touching and gender-based violence can fall under broader discussions of sexual misconduct, the scope of sexual abuse is more explicitly framed within the context of the experiences of inmates, highlighting the importance of recognizing all forms of abuse that can occur in such settings. Consensual sexual relationships, as mentioned in one of the options, are not recognized under PREA since the nature of consent is complicated and often non-existent in correctional settings. Thus, the most accurate representation of what PREA defines as sexual abuse is indeed the abuse of inmates by one another or by staff members.