How do Victims Respond to Sexual Violence?
The emotional trauma caused by a sexual assault can be severe and long lasting. A survivor may be affected in many different ways.
Here are some common emotions and reactions that a victim of sexual violence may experience. Be aware that many of these may look, feel, mean, and be interpreted in different ways depending on a range of factors such as culture, religion, type of sexual violence, past experiences, and current experience- especially of support and help.
Also note that not all victims experience the same thing at the same time, and many of the symptoms vary dramatically. There is no "normal" victim or "normal" experience or reaction to sexual violence. Therefore, know that although some victims may present as being quiet, shy, reluctant, and reserved, others may be what you may otherwise label as belligerent, aggressive, confrontational, hostile, or uncooperative.
Common Emotions After Sexual Violence |
- Fear
- Guilt
- Feelings of being dirty
- Anger
- Shock
- Shame
- Sadness
- Anxiety
- Hostility
- Irritability
- Worry
- Fatigue
- Grief (a sense of loss)
- Disbelief and/or denial
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- Confusion
- Loneliness
- Depression
- Self-blame
- Promiscuity
- Lack of trust
- Dissociation
- Nervousness
- Feelings of helplessness
- Vulnerability
- Inability to focus
- Decreased desire for sexual intimacy
- Feeling "out of control"
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Some Common Behaviors After Experiencing Sexual Violence |
- Might break off relationships
- Have difficulty concentrating
- Withdrawal or clinginess
- Isolation
- Distrust of self and/or others
- Suicidal feelings or attempts
- Decline in studies and grades
- Increase in studies and grades
- Unusual sexual behavior
- Change in body posture/positioning
- Dreams, flashbacks, nightmares
- Decreased self-esteem/body image
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- Hyper vigilance (extreme watchfulness)
- Decline in hygiene
- Heightened hygiene
- Heightened emotions
- Questioning "Why me?"
- Numbing or "bizarre" affect and expression of emotions
- Refusal to engage in any sexual activity or intimate touching
- Tendency to harm self
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Sleeping or eating disturbance
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