I am confused. Basically what IS sexual abuse? I am currently working with my therapist on anger management issues and I have told her of several incidences where my mother broke the boundaries with me. Sure I had emotional abuse from her.

I was around age 14 or 15 where she was in control of the situation - I had an infection "down below" and the doctor gave me some ointment and I let her put it on - I felt powerless, I felt it was "normal" - but should I have allowed this to happen? My mother was sexually abused by her father and held it all in for 30 years. It is very sad but she never sought help.

Also I am now 40 and around 5 years ago I had a bad back and went to an osteopath and let him touch me in places where he shouldnt have - he was in control.....

Are these incidences a form of sexual abuse or is it just about power and control?? Is sexual abuse crossing the boundaries with the body? Is it someone exposing themselves to someone else? Is it being made to touch someone (this didnt happen to me)? Is it someone touching you?

I am very sorry for all the details but this has been on my mind for a long time and I want to get it right in my mind somehow.

Thanks all.