76. To Tell or Not To Tell: The Sexual Assault Survivor’s Conundrum

Sexual Assault Survivor Stories Podcast - SASS

Sexual assault is a deeply personal and often traumatic experience that affects millions of individuals worldwide. For survivors, the decision to share their stories with the public is one fraught with complexities and potential consequences. In this episode I’ll help examine and explain the pros and cons of someone telling their sexual assault story to the public, or anyone for that matter, considering both the individual's perspective and the broader societal implications.

Here's some of the highlights:

Cons of Sharing:

1. Re-Victimization and Trauma

2. Loss of Privacy and Control

3. Impact on Relationships and Careers

4. Secondary Trauma for Loved Ones

Pros of Sharing:

1. Empowerment and Healing

2. Raising Awareness and Breaking Stigma

3. Holding Perpetrators Accountable

4. Inspiring Change and Advocacy

The decision to share a sexual assault story publicly is deeply personal and complex. While speaking out can expose survivors to potential re-victimization, loss of privacy, and negative consequences for their relationships and well-being, research shows that there are some overwhelmingly important benefits to disclosure that should be strongly considered, including empowering oneself and other survivors, raising awareness, and holding perpetrators accountable. Ultimately what I think is most essential is to support survivors in making informed choices about sharing their stories, respecting their autonomy, and providing them with the resources and support they need to navigate the complexities of disclosure. Creating a culture that values survivors' voices, believes their stories, and prioritizes their healing as we do here at Sexual Assault Survivor Stories is crucial in addressing the pervasive issue of sexual violence and the rape culture that exists in our society.

Hopefully this episode helps some of you who are victims or survivors of rape or sexual assault and are struggling with the decision of whether to disclose your experience (to anyone!) or not. I hope you find some answers in listening to this episode!

It would be great to hear your thoughts and input on this subject…and whether you found this episode informative and helpful. Please rate this episode and leave me your comments! Your input is appreciated!

Please remember to do your part to help bring justice to victims and survivors of rape and sexual assault; the best way for you to do that is to Start By Believing. Because, we all know someone whose life has been affected by rape or sexual assault.

In addition, here are some links you might find informative, helpful, and resourceful. Please learn about these people and organizations and support them financially if at all possible. They are there for you!

https://safeinharmsway.org

https://evawi.org

https://startbybelieving.org

https://thejanbrobergfoundation.org

https://projectcallisto.org

https://projectbeloved.org

https://unspokenboundaries.com

https://createpeacefulsolutions.com

https://arcigrey.com

https://merleyost.com/

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