Reporting (Or Not) After Sexual Assault After a sexual assault, survivors experience a wide range of emotions, reactions, and feelings that can influence their choice to report to law enforcement. This decision is extremely personal and may or may not feel like the 'right' option. The best choice is the one made by the survivor. Some, but not all, of the common reasons for not reporting include:
FEAR A survivor may fear for their safety (or that of their loved ones) if they report their assault. Survivors may also fear retaliation from the perpetrator at work, home, or in their social circles. Fear of coming forward, reliving their story, or distrust of the criminal justice system may also be factors.
SHAME Nobody deserves to be sexually assaulted - and it is never the survivor's fault. However, stigmas about sexual assault victims still exist in society, which can cause someone to avoid disclosing their experience to others. Survivors often report feelings of shame, guilt, self-blame, and embarrassment in the aftermath of an assault.
NOT BEING BELIEVED Many people are unprepared & don't know how to respond appropriately when someone tells them they have been sexually assaulted. When survivors are questioned, shamed, or blamed for their experience, it results in a lesser likelihood that they will report to law enforcement. The best thing loved ones can do is start by believing.
TRAUMA Traumatic experiences have physical effects on the brain. Survivors often experience memory loss, flashbacks, difficulty managing emotions, and other responses that can make reporting an assault difficult. Additionally, some survivors simply may not be ready when others think they "should" be.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, Shelterhouse is here to help.
Call: 877-216-6383 Text: 989-200-5122